Many homeowners believe that the larger the HVAC system, the better it could perform its job. But that’s not always the case. A bigger furnace or air conditioner can provide too much heat and cold that can compromise your comfort. What’s worse, it could cause your monthly electric bills to increase drastically, breaking your bank in the long run.
Now, what’s the HVAC system size that best suits your specific home heating and cooling needs? This comprehensive guide will help make your selection process more convenient and less stressful than you’ve imagined!
Dangers of Investing in a Wrong HVAC System Size
Aside from high electric costs and discomfort, a bigger or smaller furnace or air conditioning size can lead to other problems you don’t want and deserve.
The following are the other dangers of having an undersized or oversized HVAC appliance installed in your home.
- Poor Indoor Air Quality
One of the main functions of your HVAC system is to circulate and filter indoor air. Unfortunately, an oversized unit will push more air around than your living space can comfortably handle.
This can cause the warm or cold air to mix together, creating uncomfortable humidity levels and temperature inconsistencies. Not to mention, the extra airflow will suck up more dust and allergens, leading to poor indoor air quality.
- Short Cycling
If your A/C is too small, it will have a hard time cooling down your home when the weather gets hot. Then, it’s likely to turn on and off more frequently, also known as short cycling. It can lead to premature wear and tear on your air conditioner, and it will also use more electricity in the long run.
- Overheating
Another disadvantage of having a too big furnace is that it will try to heat your home too quickly, leading to overheating. It may likely damage your furnace, increase your energy bills, and even create a fire hazard.
- Reduced Lifespan
Investing in the wrong HVAC system size will not only make it less efficient but will also reduce its lifespan. So, to extend the longevity of your furnace or air conditioner for many years, make sure to get the right size unit. While it may be time-consuming and daunting, all of your efforts will not go to waste.
- Void Warranty
Most manufacturers might void the warranty of HVAC in Bethlehem, PA, that’s not adequately sized for your home. And when you lose your system’s warranty, you might spend more in the long run, from unexpected repairs to replacement.
Therefore, even if you have a busy schedule, it’s worth studying and examining the warranty terms and conditions to avoid any regrets in the future.
How to Determine the Proper HVAC System Size?
There are multiple factors to consider when identifying the right HVAC size for your home. If you are a beginner, the process will not be less frustrating than expected.
But here are a few steps that may help:
- Measure Your Home’s Square Footage
The first thing you need to do is measure your home’s square footage. But with many things that run through your mind, you probably don’t know where to begin. Before anything else, it’s time-saving to prepare all the necessary materials like a measuring tool.
Then, for those who do not have any relevant experience, watching video tutorials over the internet will be of great help. But that will not be necessary with the expert assistance from the pros.
- Check Your Home’s Insulation Levels
Is your home not insulated well? Remember that poor insulation can allow indoor air to seep out from your air conditioner or furnace, affecting the performance of your HVAC in Bethlehem, PA, when left unfixed for an extended period.
That’s why before you stick to a specific heating or cooling appliance, it will be a bright idea to have your property inspected by qualified insulation professional.
In case you can no longer endure the harsh sweltering season, it may help if you purchase a more extensive HVAC system to compensate for the extra heat or cold air loss. But don’t be surprised when your electric bills increase.
- Pay Attention to Your Home’s Layout
The layout of your home can also affect the size of the HVAC in Bethlehem, PA. For those with a multi-story property, you will need a bigger unit to cool or heat all the levels. How about those with a single-story home? You can never go wrong with a smaller unit.
- Consider Your Home’s Climate
The climate you live in is another factor you cannot afford to miss and overlook. If you live in a hot environment, you will need a bigger A/C unit to cool your home. However, if you live in a cold climate, you will need a larger furnace to warm your home.
- Talk to a Professional
Are you still unsure about what size of HVAC appliance to pick? It’s best to consult with a certified contractor. They will be able to help you select the perfect cooling and heating appliance for your home and budget needs.
That’s not all! An experienced technician also has in-depth expertise in handling installation, repair, replacement, or tune-up projects.
Whether your current furnace/air conditioner is not working as it’s supposed to or you’re planning to upgrade to something new and efficient, an HVAC company provides full-range services for you.
Mistakes to Avoid When Looking for HVAC System Size
When looking for an HVAC in Bethlehem, PA, you want the best option as a homeowner. And the size of the heating or cooling equipment should be top of your priority.
But since you are a beginner, there’s a high chance that you might miss something important. The following are some mistakes you should avoid:
Not Thinking About Your Home’s Insulation and Climate
It’s a must to consider the insulation and climate of your home when you want to use and enjoy the right HVAC unit size.
Whether the weather in your area is unpredictable or freezing, you’ll never go wrong with a more extensive system.
And when there are problems with your insulation, you’ll also need a more oversized air conditioner or furnace than someone who has well-insulated walls and ceilings.
Not Considering Your Family’s Needs
Your family’s needs should also be taken into account when selecting an HVAC unit size. If you have a large family, you’ll need a bigger system than someone who lives alone.
It’s also understandable if you take advantage of something smaller, especially when you are on a tight budget.
But when it gets colder and hotter day by day, your existing system might not exceed your expectations. So, it would be best if you were willing to spend more.
Failing to Consult with a Professional
While a DIY selection of air conditioners or furnaces can help you cut costs and acquire significant savings, it may not be ideal when you don’t have the prior experience and necessary tools and equipment.
Therefore, even if hiring an expert will require additional costs, you can ensure that your search for an efficient and premium quality HVAC in Bethlehem, PA, will be smooth and convenient.
Not Taking into Account the SEER Rating
The SEER rating of an HVAC is one of the most commonly overlooked factors when selecting an air conditioning or heating system size.
But don’t forget that it is essential. Also called Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, SEER is the ratio of an HVAC appliance’s heating or cooling output. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the unit will be.
Apart from that, a highly SEER-rated unit can also ensure greater indoor comfort. Although it might cost you an arm or a leg at first, it might lead to significant savings in the future.
Working with the Wrong Contractor
With the high demand for an efficient HVAC in Bethlehem, PA, the companies that provide repair, installation, and tune-up have significantly increased, making the competition more challenging and intense.
That’s why every HVAC company would try its best to catch your attention and turn you into a potential client. Usually, they would provide super cheap rates. And as a homeowner who’s finding ways to cut costs, you may be tempted to give the service a shot.
But before you make a decision you will regret, it may be helpful to ask your close friends, colleagues, and relatives for some referrals.
Not Getting a Written Estimate
It’s also imperative to get a written estimate from any contractor you plan to hire. It will help ensure there are no surprises once the project is underway. Also, you don’t have to stick to the first company you find. Always try to search for competitively priced alternatives.
Need Expert Help? Call the Experts At D&D Heating & Cooling!
Whether you are unsure about the perfect HVAC size or need installation, tune-up, and repair, the D&D Heating & Cooling team is always ready to lend you a hand!
With many years of industry experience, our NATE-certified technicians have the skills and know-how to address any of your HVAC needs. We understand that not everyone is an HVAC expert, which is why we go above and beyond to make sure that you are comfortable and confident with every service we provide. We also take the time to answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have. Give us a call at 610-890-7621 today!
