Choosing the right HVAC system size for your home is vital. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your power expenses. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning will explain how to determine the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why picking the most suitable 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 comfortable. It shouldn't have to work extremely hard to keep up in extremely hot or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's oversized is inefficient, costs more up front and can cause problems that make your home less comfortable.

Crucial Factors Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Mission Viejo, CA

To determine the appropriate HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning 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 multiple features of your home, such as:

  • Square footage: The total area 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 retains the indoor temperature more efficiently, which can impact how much heating and cooling capacity you demand.
  • Climate: The local climate in Mission Viejo, CA, has a major role in identifying the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in hotter climates might need a system with an increased cooling capacity, while chillier regions may need less.
  • Window 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 affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that receives a lot of sunlight will naturally be warmer than one that doesn't, which affects central air sizing. Positioning in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also impact the correct HVAC size.

HVAC Size Mistakes Homeowners Often Make

A common mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their 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 necessary to keep your home comfortable.

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

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

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

Issues with undersized HVAC systems:

  • Less longevity and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often operate continuously to strive to maintain the temperature in 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 residence, which can lead to hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Increased energy bills: An underpowered HVAC system that operates nonstop trying to keep up uses more energy, increasing 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

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems typically have a higher purchase price, so investing in more heating and cooling capacity than your home needs is a waste of money.
  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too big often start and stop frequently, 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 regulate indoor humidity, 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, such as mold growth.

Get the Right HVAC System Size by Working With the Pros at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning  

Now that you understand some of the aspects of your home that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.

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

Call 949-204-0859 today to schedule your free estimate for HVAC installation in Mission Viejo, CA.