Everyone wants a house that stays comfortable. Most people also want to keep it that way without paying a higher bill every month. Will buying the biggest HVAC on the market solve the problem?
Not at all. In fact, a bigger HVAC can sometimes cause more problems than it solves. The key to efficiency is finding a system that’s the right size for your house. It shouldn’t be too big or too small. This HVAC replacement contractor in Northfield, Illinois is going to explain why below.
Bigger is not always better when it comes to heating and cooling systems.
When the HVAC system is too large for your house, it often blasts air and then shuts off before getting to the desired temperature. That is called short cycling. Short cycling can create temperature inconsistencies throughout your home, with some rooms feeling hotter than others.
And every single time the system stops and then starts again, it consumes more electricity. You will see this on your monthly bill. All this constant cycling is hard on the compressor and fan motor as well.
On the other hand, a system that is too small will continue to run. And as it does, your utility bill will keep increasing along with it.
Finding the ideal HVAC size takes some calculation.
Professional heating and cooling contractors use load calculation to estimate exactly how much cooling power your home needs.
A proper load calculation considers more than the square footage of your house. For example, it evaluates the insulation in your walls and attic. Thick and well-packed insulation keeps the cool air inside longer.
It also checks the type and number of windows you have. Big single-pane windows can leak cool air outside, while double-pane windows don’t. The latter keeps the temperature inside your home more stable.
The direction your home faces is also an important factor. A house baking in the sun all day will obviously need more cooling capacity than one facing away from direct sunlight.
Older homes tend to have small gaps around doors or leaks in the ductwork. The calculation also includes these problems because they leak the cool air before it reaches the rooms you want to cool.
It even considers the number of people living in the house and the number of appliances you use. Both release heat and add to the total load your system must handle to maintain your desired temperature.
Once all of this is factored in, a professional HVAC replacement contractor in Northfield, Illinois can recommend the perfect AC size for your home.
Heating and cooling issues are not always a result of the system itself.
Let’s say you finally bought an HVAC system that’s the perfect size for your house. Problem solved? Not quite. Comfort is not only about the unit itself…there are a few other things you need to keep in mind.
For example, consider leaky ductwork. What if the treated air moving through your ducts escapes through cracks before it reaches your living room? Then your system must run much longer to maintain the desired temperature. And longer run times mean higher utility bills.
Then there is insulation, or the lack of it. Even the most powerful heating and cooling systems can’t compensate for a house that constantly loses conditioned air due to thin insulation.
Airflow problems can also be a factor. A clogged filter can prevent cool air from circulating freely throughout your house. As a result, some rooms will remain uncomfortable regardless of how much the system runs.
Finally, there is installation. If the system is not installed properly, you will not get the performance or the savings you were hoping for. With that said, it’s always best to work with a professional HVAC replacement contractor in Northfield, Illinois to ensure the job is done right.
Looking for an HVAC replacement contractor in Northfield, Illinois?
If you are ready to buy a new heating and cooling system, John J. Cahill Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. As the most trusted HVAC replacement contractor in Northfield, Illinois, we will make sure your new system is sized perfectly for your home so your home stays comfortable without wasting energy. Contact us anytime at 847-864-5225 to get started.
