Choosing the correct HVAC system size for your home is essential. It impacts your comfort and your energy bills. In this HVAC sizing guide, the professionals at Home Comfort will explain how to determine the right size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why picking the best size HVAC is so important to your convenience.

Why HVAC System Size Matters for Home Comfort and Efficiency

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

Critical Features Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Eugene, OR

To choose the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Home Comfort conduct a Manual J load calculation to determine how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) are necessary to heat and cool and the home. A Manual J calculation evaluates several features of your home, such as:

  • Size of the home: The size of the home is arguably the most significant factor in choosing the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to keep comfortable?
  • Home insulation: A well- insulated home maintains the indoor temperature better, which can influence how much heating and cooling power you need.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in Eugene, OR, has an important role in determining the correct size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates might need a system with an increased cooling capacity, while chillier regions may require less.
  • Window placement and size: Windows can be a major source of energy loss. The number, dimensions, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double paned can significantly influence heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that receives a considerable sunlight will automatically be warmer than one that doesn't, which influences central air sizing. Orientation in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also affect the appropriate HVAC size.

Most Common DIY HVAC Size Mistakes

A common mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their HVAC system is to base their decision on square footage. While the square footage of your home has a big impact on what size HVAC you need, other considerations also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is necessary to keep your home cozy.

Another typical mistake is not employing a professional. It's vital to have an experienced HVAC technician carry out a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential elements into consideration to establish the correct HVAC size.

What Difference Does HVAC System Size Make?

An incorrectly sized system can lead to comfort problems and increase expenses. Here's a detailed view of the pitfalls of a incorrectly sized HVAC:

Problems with HVAC systems that are too small:

  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that don't have enough power often operate continuously to try to heat or cool a home, leading to more wear and tear. This can lead to 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 uncomfortably cold.
  • Increased energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that operates nonstop trying to keep up uses more energy, driving up your monthly power bills and costing you money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system uses less power and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Problems with HVAC systems that are too big

  • Unnecessary expenses: Larger HVAC systems typically have a higher purchase price, so buying more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is a waste of money.
  • Shorter system life 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 machine, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Excessive indoor humidity: An HVAC system should control the moisture level in your home, but an oversized HVAC system often completes its cycle before it has time to accomplish that task. This can cause indoor air quality issues, such as mold growth.

Get Professional HVAC Sizing and Replacement by Working with Home Comfort  

Now that you understand some of the things that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. Home Comfort can help.

We’ll evaluate your home and give you a free, no-obligation estimate for HVAC installation. We’ll evaluate 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 541-345-2838 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in Eugene, OR.