How To Determine What Size HVAC System You Need
Choosing the correct-size HVAC system for your home is essential to optimizing its efficiency, reducing energy waste, avoiding premature wear and tear, and increasing the comfort of your home. In other words, selecting the size of your HVAC system is a pretty important decision. Many HVAC systems in the United States are sized in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The higher the BTU rating of the system, the more power the system can provide. To learn how to determine what size HVAC system you need, keep these key considerations in mind.
Measure the Size of Your Space
The first step to determining the correct HVAC system size for your home is measuring the size of the space you would like to heat, cool, or ventilate. The ideal size will largely depend on how much square footage the system will need to control the temperature of. Properly heating, cooling, and ventilating a bigger space will naturally require a larger, more powerful system. To get an idea of the general BTU rating your space will need, simply multiply the square footage of the area by 25. Heating one square foot generally takes around 25 BTUs, so this simple equation will give you a rough base BTU measurement to go off of.
Measure the Height of Your Ceiling
In addition to the square footage of the zone you would like to heat, cool, or ventilate, the height of your ceiling will also largely influence which size HVAC system is ideal. Most size charts and size estimation equations for HVAC systems are based on the assumption the space has an eight-foot-high ceiling. If your home has ceilings that exceed eight feet, you’ll need to opt for a larger, more powerful system to account for the extra space.
Inspect Your Home’s Insulation
Another tip for how to determine what size HVAC system you need is to inspect your home’s insulation. If your home is under-insulated, it won’t retain cold air or heat very well. Thus, you’ll need a more powerful HVAC system to account for the heat or cold air loss and to keep your space at a comfortable temperature.
Consider Your Home’s Location
It’s also important to consider your home’s location when choosing the size of your HVAC system. If you live in a location with a particularly hot or cold climate, your home’s HVAC system will likely need to use more power to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. As such, you should consider purchasing a larger system for your home than you would if you lived in a milder climate.
The Pioneer Mini Split Store is a leading provider of high-quality HVAC systems—from ducted mini-split systems to ductless units. To find a unit that’s right for your home, shop our online collection or contact us today.
