How can I tell what size heating and air conditioning system I need?

When it comes to new central heat and air units, size is critical. In order for a system to work properly, it must be sized correctly for the space it will serve, whether it be a small home or a large commercial space; furnaces and air conditioners are not one-size-fits-all. In order to make sure the new system you want to purchase is the correct size, enlist the help of a trusted HVAC professional, who can perform the needed calculations to find what size system you need.

How Are System Sizes Measured?

Air conditioning and heating systems are measured by the ton. The ton in this case is not the weight of the system; rather a measure of heat supplied or removed. In the HVAC world, we use British Thermal Units (BTUs) to measure heat. The tonnage of a heating or cooling system refers to how much heat it can create or remove.

Manual J Calculations

HVAC technicians perform Manual J calculations in order to determine the appropriate size for central heat and air units for a specific residence or building, including those manufactured by Trane, Rheem, Bryant, and Carrier. This calculation takes into account several important factors needed in order to find just how much heating and cooling will be needed to keep your indoor spaces comfortable. Manual J calculations will include factors such as:

• The square footage of your space
• The climate of your area
• The number of windows in your home or commercial space
• The height of your ceilings
• The quality of your ductwork and insulation
• Benefits of a Properly Sized HVAC System

Sizing new central heat and air units correctly is absolutely critical to the systems’ continued success. The size of your HVAC system will have an impact on your comfort and operating expenses for years to come, which is why it is so important that you work with a trusted HVAC professional in order to calculate the correct system size for your space. Properly sized systems offer many advantages, including:

Properly sized heating and cooling systems are able to keep your spaces comfortable; systems that are too small will struggle to meet your demands, while those that are too large can overheat or overcool your spaces.

Properly sized heating and cooling systems are efficient; those that are too small will struggle to meet your demand, therefore they will use excessive energy to keep up, and those that are too large use more energy than what is really necessary to keep your spaces comfortable.

Properly sized heating and cooling equipment lasts longer; systems that are too small need to run constantly, stressing the system and wearing it out sooner, while overly large systems short cycle, which also stresses the equipment, leading to breakdowns and early replacement needs.

For friendly and professional advice on the sales, service and maintenance of HVAC equipment; contact Parkers Heating and Cooling today or call us at 615-355-9137.