Finding the correct HVAC system size for your home is crucial. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your power expenses. In this HVAC sizing guide, the specialists at Refrigeration Systems Ltd. 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 adequate heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home pleasant. It shouldn't have to work extremely hard to keep up in extremely scorching or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, increases your energy expenses and can create issues that make your home less agreeable.

Crucial Factors Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Richmond, BC

To select the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Refrigeration Systems Ltd. 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 elements, such as:

  • Square footage: The size of the home is arguably the most crucial factor in choosing the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system have to heat and cool?
  • Insulation levels in the home: A well- insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more effectively, which can affect how much heating and cooling capacity you require.
  • Climate: The local climate in Richmond, BC, has an important role in identifying the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates might need a system with a higher cooling capacity, while cooler regions may require less.
  • Window placement and size: Windows can be a considerable source of energy loss. The number, dimensions, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double pane can considerably impact heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that gets a substantial sunlight will automatically 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 affect the correct HVAC size.

HVAC Size Mistakes Homeowners Often Make

A common mistake homeowners make when choosing the size of home 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 comfortable.

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

What Difference Does HVAC System Size Make?

An improperly sized system can lead to 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:

  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often run constantly to try to heat or cool a home, leading to increased wear and tear. This can lead to breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An unpleasant home: Small HVAC systems lack the necessary capacity to heat and cool your whole home, which can cause 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, running up your monthly power bills and costing you money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system operates more efficiently and helps to reduce your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Unnecessary expenses: Larger HVAC systems tend to cost more money, so buying more heating and cooling capacity than your home needs is a waste of money.
  • Less service 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 balance indoor air moisture, but an oversized HVAC system may lack adequate runtime to accomplish that task. This can cause indoor air quality issues, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get Professional HVAC Sizing and Replacement by Working with Refrigeration Systems Ltd.  

Now that you have learned some of the aspects of your home that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to select a new heating and cooling system. Refrigeration Systems Ltd. can help.

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

Call 778-693-2532 today to book your free estimate for HVAC installation in Richmond, BC.