Why Choosing the Right Size Heat Pump is Essential

Having an appropriately sized heat pump is more important than you may realize. Having the right size heat pump in your home or office is essential for making sure the indoor air temperatures is comfortable regardless of the outdoor temperature. However, determining the size that is needed goes beyond considering the square footage of the area that needs to be heated, the area the old pump took up or taking note of the size of an old heat pump. The average person likely does not have the knowledge base to accurately assess the proper size that is needed for a given area. Here is a basic overview that explains why having a properly-sized heat pump is crucial.

Air-to-Air Pumps

An air-to-air heat pump is capable of both heating and cooling. Generally, this type of heat pump is sized to provide the most heat that is required by a house or other building because a heat load is larger than a cooling load. However, that can result in a heating pump is too large to adequately cool a house, particularly in the areas of the country where it gets cold.

Humidity

Humidity is a huge factor in sizing heat pumps. The humidity level varies greatly from one region of the country to another. So, having the right heat pump will be different depending on where you live. If you do not have the proper size pump for the humidity level where you live, your system will short-cycle, which leads to poor humidity control. There is a good chance that the unit will not control the humidity level well. Further, they will likely have a shorter lifespan due to its frequent stopping and starting.

Oversized Systems 

A system that is too big for the area in which it is controlling the climate can be problematic. First it costs more than a smaller system, but that is not the only issue. Systems that are too large also do not work efficiently, the energy cost is higher and it does not produce the same comfort level as a system that is optimally sized would. When an oversized pump is used, the system will reach its optimum heat too fast and shut off often. This situation results in greater temperature fluctuation and poor humidity control. Plus, the system will have to work harder to distribute air.

Undersized Systems 

A system that is too small for the area in which it is controlling the climate can also be problematic. A system that is too small will work at its maximum capacity until it reaches the designated temperature. It can go non-stop if it cannot keep up with the demands of the thermostat. When the system works this hard, the quality of the air temperature suffers and you risk having the compressor fail from working too hard. Ideally, you want a heating system to work quickly and with less stress. That way less energy is used and a comfortable temperature can be better maintained.

The Manual J Method 

Throughout the HVAC industry, professionals use the Manual J method to determine the optimal heat pump size for a house. This method takes into account a comprehensive list of energy-related aspects of your home. A professional can come to your home and assess your needs and the requirements that are needed to fulfill them. Once all the data is taken and considered, a technician can set you up with the perfect heat pump for your house.

Sizing a Heat Pump Yourself 

Since having the right sized heat pump for your home is so important, it is important for you to know exactly what size you need. Although your best bet is to call an HVAC professional so you can be confident that someone with knowledge and experience is assessing the situation. you can do it yourself if you have confidence in your abilities. Here are some helpful tips on what to consider  when determining the best size heating pump for your house:

• How many windows you have. 
• The insulation you have. 
• The amount of air that gets into your home. 
• Your local climate and how many days a year you need heating and cooling. 
• The size and shape of your home. 
• The number of people living in the home and the temperature and humidity preferences of those people. 
• Any appliances in the home that generate heat. 
• Landscaping can affect the house’s temperature. 

Having the Right Heat Pump Size 

When you have a heat pump that is the ideal size for your home, you will experience many benefits from it. Heat pumps that are the proper size use less electricity and allow your heating system to work more efficiently. So, they offer an inexpensive way to heat and cool your home. Further, when you have a heat pump that fits the size of your home, you allow it to work cleanly and quietly, which is beneficial to anyone inside the home.

Having the right size heat pump for your home is incredibly important for a variety of reasons. Not only can it save you money, but it also runs cleaner, so it is better for the environment. Using a heat pump that is either too big or too small can cause your system to work too hard and you put it in danger of failing, especially when you need it the most. The best way to determine the ideal heat pump size for your house is to consult with an HVAC professional. Contact Preferred Climate Solutions today to see how we can help you.