What Size Heat Pump Do I Need?

January 31, 2019

When the time comes to replace your heat pump, it’s important to know that one size does not fit all. A system that is not sized properly for your home, will not only impact your comfort, but can mean a shortened life of your heat pump, and leave you stuck with higher energy bills each month.

How can you be confident you know the correct heat pump size for your home? Get started with a load calculation from the professionals at Kilbourne Heating & AC. A load calculation takes specifics from your home into consideration and gauges the Btu (a number that indicates the capacity of a heat pump) needed to heat your home. The typical and broadly accepted method is a calculation of the total heat loss and heat gain of the structure using ACCA Manual J.

Some Things that Influence Heat Pump Size

  • Square Footage—How large is the space your heat pump will be required to heat? Your technician will be sure to carefully measure the square footage of your home. Not every inch of your home needs to be considered during this process. Typically, it is more useful to account only for the space that needs heating.
  • Home Insulation—Insulation supports keeping warm air from escaping your home during the cold winter months. It also seriously influences energy efficiency and how large of a heating system you’ll need. Let the experts from Kilbourne Heating & AC examine the insulation in your walls and attic. They’ll help you find the best heat pump for your house.
  • Type of Window— Just like your walls, the certain type of windows in your home, frame type, glaze type, gas fills/spaces, etc. will need to be considered with the heating and cooling needs of your home.
  • Outdoor Climate—Consider the range of weather you encounter in Delray Beach. Your household will need a heat pump that can sustain the conditions of your area every year, without straining itself or needing back up heat.

Don’t settle for ‘close enough’ when picking your new heat pump. Let the professionals at Kilbourne Heating & AC help you find a system that will fit your home properly. When you’re ready to start the process, call us at 561-287-7071 or arrange an appointment online. Whether you have a few more questions about heat pump size or want to discuss options for your space, we’re happy to help you out.