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If you’re planning to replace your heating system, one of the most important things to ask prospective contractors is how they’ll determine the correct furnace size for your home. Many older HVAC systems are oversized, but modern equipment should be carefully matched to your home’s actual heating needs.
Why does proper sizing matter?
Installing a furnace that’s too large can lead to a problem called short cycling. This occurs when the furnace heats the air around the thermostat too quickly, which causes the system to shut off before the rest of the home reaches the desired temperature. As the temperature drops, the furnace turns back on and repeats the cycle over and over. Not only does short cycling create uneven temperatures throughout the house, but it also increases wear and tear on the equipment and drives up energy consumption.
How do contractors determine the right furnace size?
Your contractor should perform a Manual J residential load calculation, which accounts for factors like your home’s square footage, insulation levels, windows, doors and overall construction. This process will help ensure your new system is properly sized for maximum comfort and efficiency.