What Size Should My Replacement Furnace Be?

February 29, 2016

What Size Should My Replacement Furnace Be?

You’ve come to the point where it’s time for a furnace replacement or perhaps you see this point approaching quickly, but how do you decide the size of system you’ll need? Choosing the best size is critical for your system’s efficiency and your home’s comfort. There’s a perfect furnace out there for you and your comfort needs.

When replacing your system, bigger isn’t always better.

Buying a system that is too large wastes energy and money. A larger system will constantly be warming up and cooling down because it’s production will not require it to workas long. This is known as “short cycling” and it increases the wear on your system and in turn hurts the lifespan of your system. An oversized unit will cost you more money up front and down the road.

On the other hand, a system that is too little will run too long and will not be able to fully heat your home when the weather gets cold. An inadequately sized system will have to work harder, your energy costs will be higher and your comfort will be affected because of that. It’s very important to talk to a pro that will complete a load calculation and advise you on the best system for your needs.

How is Load Calculation Determined?

A home’s load calculation used to be decided based only on square footage and was often incorrect. Technology and knowledge have come a long way since then. When you’re ready for a replacement furnace, one of the professionals from Central Heating & Plumbing will study your home as a whole and then be able to provide an accurate load calculation. Load calculations are made of everything from the construction of your home, amount of insulation, the local climate and type and color of your roof, to the number of home occupants – a truly comprehensive assessment of your needs.

A correctly sized and functioning HVAC system will not only keep you more comfortable, it will also save you money. Adding a replacement furnace is a huge decision, which is why we want to ensure your system will meet or exceed all of your needs. We are here to help you along during every step of the process. If you are ready for a furnace replacement or have any questions for the experts at Central Heating & Plumbing, give us a call at 724-401-1843.