Selecting the correct HVAC system size for your home is vital. It has a big impact on your comfort and your energy bills. In this HVAC sizing guide, the professionals at Ilten's will explain how to select the right size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why choosing the ideal size HVAC is so important to your satisfaction.

How Does HVAC System Size Affect Your Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size differs for each home. Your HVAC system needs enough heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home comfortable. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely scorching or chilly weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, costs more up front and can lead to complications that make your home less comfortable.

Crucial Factors Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Cedar Rapids, IA

To choose the appropriate HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Ilten's carry out a Manual J load calculation to determine how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) are needed to heat and cool and the home. A Manual J calculation evaluates several factors, such as:

  • Size of the home: 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 be required to keep comfortable?
  • Insulation levels in the home: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature better, which can impact how much heating and cooling capacity you require.
  • Climate: The local climate in Cedar Rapids, IA, has a significant role in determining the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in hotter climates might need a system with a higher cooling capacity, while chillier regions may require less.
  • Number of windows: 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 considerably impact heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun and shade: A home that gets a lot of sunlight will inherently be warmer than one that doesn't, which influences central air sizing. Home placement in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also impact the appropriate HVAC size.

HVAC Size Mistakes Homeowners Often Make

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

Another typical mistake is not employing a professional. It's vital to have a skilled HVAC technician conduct a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential factors into consideration to determine the right HVAC size.

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

An incorrectly sized system can lead to comfort problems and cost you money. Here's a detailed view of the pitfalls of a wrong-sized HVAC:

Issues with undersized HVAC systems:

  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often seem to run all the time to attempt to regulate the temperature of 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 don't have enough power to heat and cool your entire living space, which can cause hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Increased energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that works constantly 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 uses less power and helps to reduce your monthly bills.

Problems with HVAC systems that are too big

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems tend to cost more money, so investing in more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is a waste of money.
  • Less service life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are excessively large often cycle on and off, referred to as short cycling. This can cause wear and tear on your machine, shortening 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 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 Ilten's  

Now that you understand some of the factors that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to select a new heating and cooling system. Ilten's is here to help.

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

Call 319-208-2351 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in Cedar Rapids, IA.