In today’s world, everything around us seems oversized. Right from the coffee mugs to homes, everything is expected to be little more than what we need. But what if you are asked to buy a shirt twice your size so that you can use that extra size when you feel needed? Would you buy it? No, right? Then why don’t we think the same when it comes to homes? People inadvertently purchase HVAC systems all the time with the thought that “Bigger is better.”
Since HVAC load calculations consume a lot of time and seek detailing, most of the HVAC load calculation service contractors usually consider the 400 to 600 square feet per ton as a rule of thumb. Most of the time, homeowners don’t even bother to know how contractors calculate HVAC Load Calculations and don’t even think about the pros and cons of oversized HVAC systems.
So, what’s the HVAC load, and why do you need to seriously consider calculating it? Let’s find out in this post.
What is the HVAC load calculation?
The HVAC load calculation is a basic mathematical process that helps home HVAC system contractors measure several aspects of a building to determine the size, application, and style of the HVAC system. While performing a home HVAC load calculation, the service provider will consider the total square footage of a home, the number of doors, total windows, the R-value of insulation, and the total number of floors. HVAC load calculations have been performed over the years; however, with the advancement in technology, it is possible to complete this tedious job with ease using the HVAC load calculator.
Why HVAC load calculation is required?
Helps you get the appropriate HVAC system size
In the case of the small HVAC system, it may run continuously to keep your living space cool or warm, and fail to manage comfortable room temperature. This will result in higher energy bills and unwanted wear and tear on the system. On the other hand, if the HVAC system is too large, it will waste energy by turning it on and off frequently. Moreover, it will heat the home frequently. With the help of the HVAC load calculator, the homeowners will get the right size of the HVAC system. The HVAC system that is appropriately sized can heat or cool your home more efficiently.
Improve energy efficiency
Since the load calculations are accurate, the HVAC system designed will consume less energy while producing better results. As the system neither requires more energy to keep your home cool or warm nor it wastes energy, it will greatly improve the energy efficiency for your home. Moreover, it will lower your energy bills too.
Reduce equipment cost
Again, if home HVAC load calculations are not correct, the contractor may install a larger HVAC system. You will have to pay an additional cost for the higher-capacity equipment. With the help of the right kind of HVAC load calculator, you can avoid such mistakes and can save a huge on the up-front cost when it is measured correctly with detailed calculations.
Improve health and safety
Most homeowners often face unstable temperatures or humidity control problems due to the inappropriate size of the system. This adversely affects the health of individuals. Performing HVAC load calculations will help homeowners to get the right kind of systems that will balance the temperature within the home and contribute towards better health.
Boost HVAC system’s life
Since the HVAC system installed at home is appropriate, it will reduce the unnecessary run time of the system to manage the comfortable atmosphere in a home. This in the end reduces wear and tear of the system and increases the overall life span of the HVAC system.
Best Practices to get accurate HVAC load calculations
- Don’t follow the outdated and erroneous practices to calculate the HVAC load. Use software applications or HVAC load calculators to achieve more accurate results.
- If you have a doubt, don’t hesitate to test it!
- Never ignore short cycles of HVAC systems.
- Just make sure you consider thermal enclosure and internal loads to get the right type of temperature and humidity.
Concluding Notes…
Getting cooling load calculations or home HVAC load calculations seems a tedious task. But ignoring or avoiding it may result in higher energy consumption, reduced indoor comfort, and affect the life of HVAC systems. Approaching a professional HVAC load calculation service may seem like an expensive move. However, a well-designed HVAC system may bring a whole host of benefits such as improved energy efficiency, reduced energy bills, and comfort for the homeowners.
Looking for the HVAC load calculator that can help you get accurate details for your HVAC system? Get in touch with our experts now!
