Selecting the correct HVAC system size for your home is vital. It has a big impact on your home enjoyment and your power expenses. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at Desert Husky HVAC/R Services will explain how to determine the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why picking the ideal size HVAC is so important to your convenience.

How Does HVAC System Size Affect Your Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size differs from home to home. Your HVAC system needs sufficient heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home cozy. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely scorching or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, wastes money and can create issues that make your home less agreeable.

Crucial Factors Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Tucson, AZ

To select the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Desert Husky HVAC/R Services perform 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 factors, such as:

  • Home size: The size of the home is arguably the most crucial factor in picking the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system have to keep comfortable?
  • Amount of insulation: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature better, which can influence how much heating and cooling capacity you demand.
  • Regional Climate: The local climate in Tucson, AZ, has a major role in identifying the right size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates may require a system with a higher cooling capacity, while cooler regions may demand less.
  • Number of windows: Windows can be a major source of energy loss. The number, size, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double paned can greatly impact heating and cooling requirements.
  • Amount of sun: A home that gets a lot of sunlight will inherently be warmer than one that doesn't, which affects central air sizing. Home placement in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also influence the proper HVAC size.

Common HVAC Size Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake homeowners make when sizing their own HVAC system is to rely solely on square footage. While the square footage of your home has a major impact on what size HVAC you need, other factors also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is required to keep your home cozy.

Another typical mistake is not hiring a professional. It's vital to have a qualified HVAC technician conduct a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential factors into consideration to establish the correct HVAC size.

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

An incorrectly sized system can result in comfort problems and cost you money. 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 run constantly to try to heat or cool a home, leading to more wear and tear. This can result in breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An unpleasant home: Small HVAC systems are too weak to heat and cool your entire living space, which can result in hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Increased energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that runs continuously trying to keep up uses more energy, increasing your monthly power bills and costing you money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system consumes less energy and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Oversized HVAC system problems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems are usually more costly, so investing in more heating and cooling capacity than your home needs is an avoidable expense.
  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too big often start and stop frequently, referred to as short cycling. This can result in wear and tear on your equipment, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Increased humidity: An HVAC system should balance indoor air moisture, but an oversized HVAC system often completes its cycle before it has time 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 Desert Husky HVAC/R Services  

Now that you know some of the things that affect what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. Desert Husky HVAC/R Services can help.

We’ll evaluate your home and give you a free, no-obligation estimate for HVAC installation. We’ll assess your home to find the best HVAC system size for you, so you can experience comfort every day of the year.

Call 520-416-5415 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in Tucson, AZ.