Selecting the appropriate HVAC system size for your home is crucial. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the specialists at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning will explain how to select the right size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why choosing the most suitable size HVAC is so important to your satisfaction.

What Impact Does HVAC System Size Make on Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size differs for every home. Your HVAC system needs adequate heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home cozy. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely hot or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's too big is inefficient, costs more up front and can create issues that make your home less enjoyable.

Critical Features Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Savage, MN

To determine the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation experts at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning carry out a Manual J load calculation to determine how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) are required to heat and cool and the home. A Manual J calculation evaluates multiple features of your home, such as:

  • Home size: The size of the home is arguably the most significant factor in selecting the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system be required to heat and cool?
  • Amount of insulation: A properly insulated home retains the indoor temperature more effectively, which can influence how much heating and cooling capacity you need.
  • Regional Climate: The local climate in Savage, MN, has a significant role in identifying the right size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates may require a system with a greater cooling capacity, while chillier regions may need less.
  • Window size: Windows can be a major source of energy loss. The number, dimensions, type of glass used, and whether they’re single paned or double paned can significantly affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that receives a substantial sunlight will automatically be warmer than one that doesn't, which affects central air sizing. Orientation in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also impact the correct HVAC size.

Common HVAC Size Mistakes to Avoid

A frequent mistake homeowners make when choosing the size of home HVAC system is to base their decision on square footage. Although the square footage of your home has a big impact on what size HVAC you need, other elements also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is required to keep your home comfortable.

Another typical mistake is not engaging a professional. It's crucial to have a qualified HVAC technician carry out a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential factors into consideration to determine the appropriate HVAC size.

Why Is Your Home HVAC System Size Important?

An inadequately sized system can cause comfort problems and cost you money. Here's a closer look at the pitfalls of a wrong-sized HVAC:

Undersized HVAC system problems:

  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that don't have enough power often seem to run all the time to try to heat or cool a home, leading to excessive wear and tear. This can result in breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An uncomfortable home: Small HVAC systems lack the necessary capacity to heat and cool your whole home, which can lead to hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Higher energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that operates nonstop trying to keep up uses more energy, running up your monthly power bills and wasting your hard-earned money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system consumes less energy and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Unnecessary expenses: Larger HVAC systems typically have a higher purchase price, so buying more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is an unnecessary expense.
  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are oversized often cycle on and off, referred to as short cycling. This can lead to wear and tear on your equipment, reducing its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Humidity issues: An HVAC system should control the moisture level in your home, but an oversized HVAC system might not run long enough to accomplish that task. This can result in indoor air quality issues, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get the Right HVAC System Size by Working With the Pros at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning  

Now that you have learned some of the factors that affect what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to select a new heating and cooling system. Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning is ready to help.

We’ll evaluate your home and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate for HVAC installation. We’ll assess your home to find the most suitable HVAC system size for you, so you can have a comfortable home every day of the year.

Call 952-373-0377 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in Savage, MN.