When determining HVAC system sizes, there are certain important factors that come to play like efficiency, product quality, and cost among others. Other additional factors may include size and installation requirements. All this can be mindboggling for the first time HVAC buyer; however, here are the best tips to help you decide on how big your HVAC system should be.
Does Size Really Matter?
Like many other consumers, you may be asking yourself this question. The answer is yes; going with the right size determines whether your home gets adequate cooling or warming when the seasons changes. HVAC system sizes are dependent on your home living space, how much of the walls are exposed to sun, how much sunlight your home receives, how old your house is and how much shade is provided to your home by shrubs or trees.
Additionally, you may also need to consider the number of windows in your home, their condition, and orientation as well. How much insulation and air sealing your home has also comes to play when selecting HVAC system sizes.
The Question of Ton and SEER
Air conditioners are rated using tons in which one ton equals 12,000 BTU or British Thermal Units. For your residential home, the larger the ton, the more BTU it offers per hour; a 2 ton HVAC system can produce 24000 BTU while a 3 Ton can release 36000 BTU in an hour.
Which selecting the tonnage for your home or business, you may also want to consider the energy efficiency of the system. Generally, larger HVAC system sizes may take in a lot of energy in operation than small ones. So when purchasing, try and look at the SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the SEER rating the less energy the HVAC will need to operate.
To better understand how size affects home cooling and warming as well as the effect on energy cost, you may need to consult a professional on the matter. If you have more questions about HVAC system sizes, feel free to contact us today and we will help you understand how size works and offer tips on making the right size choice.