Learn what factors impact the size of the HVAC system you purchase.
Knowing what size HVAC system you need for your home is a mystery to most people. A new HVAC system is a large investment, both in terms of how much you spend on the actual unit and installation as well as how much you spend on energy bills over the years. Utility costs can add up to thousands of dollars every year, so sizing your HVAC system correctly is critical to reducing this ongoing bill and optimizing energy consumption in your home. These tips can help you select the right AC system to ensure lasting energy efficiency and ideal operation.
Generally, we recommend replacing any HVAC equipment in your home once it passes the 10-year mark. Going with an energy-efficient model should be your top priority, so you may wonder why the size of your new system matters. The reason is that without sizing your AC system right, your system will be less efficient, and your maintenance and operating costs will be higher than necessary.
In our industry, “oversizing” is a common problem. When you install an HVAC system that’s too big, installation will be more expensive, the unit will cost more to operate (resulting in more breakdowns) and will not run as efficiently as it could. More specifically, oversized HVAC systems tend to shut off before they dehumidify the air completely, resulting in a clammy environment prone to mold and uncomfortable temperature swings.
The calculation for sizing your new AC unit should be multi-variable and unique to your specific home. Some of these factors should include:
- What the climate is like in your area
- How many windows you have and their size
- How much insulation you have in your home and the type of insulation
- The size of your home and how many levels it has
- How many people live in your home
Your HVAC company should also rely on two industry standards to determine your air conditioner’s size: Manual D and Manual J, both of which are created by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America to regulate HVAC size calculations. Manual J will help the company determinize the size of the unit while Manual D will help them determine duct sizing.
At A/C Medic, we carefully analyze a variety of factors when recommending air conditioner size. Our goal is to equip your home with the right size of air conditioner for optimal energy efficiency and operation for years to come. For questions or to get a quote for a new unit and installation, contact us!