Most people would agree that the operation of your heating and cooling system is what's most important. But the design can have a major effect on that operation. Does the design of your heating system matter more than most think? Can a poorly designed system increase your heating and cooling bills unnecessarily? You may be surprised at the answer.
Bad Design Equals Bad Operation
In a search for higher efficiencies and lower bills heating and cooling systems that are beyond ten years old will likely be up for replacement soon. But if you replace the existing system with something that is not sized correctly you will be inadvertently increasing the inefficiencies and probably seeing higher utilities costs.
Why? Because oversized systems do not work properly.
If heating equipment, such as a forced air furnace, is too big it will work with sporadically timed cycles. When the temperature drops the unit will pump out heat at such a powerful rate, the cycle will be cut short prematurely and the unit will shut off. Them as the temperature falls below the setting again, the furnace will start up again. These cycles produce drastic and uncomfortable swings in the temperature of your home instead of the even heat most desire.
On the cooling side, air conditioning units that are too large will not have the necessary dehumidifying effect most homes need. Because the unit cools off the air quicker it does not have as much time to pass over the cooling coils, removing the humidity from the warm air. A properly sized unit will work at a steady pace that allows the air plenty of time to pass by the coils and become dehumidified, reducing the chance of mildew and providing a more comfortable atmosphere.
Too Small Will Simply Not Be Enough
It only makes sense that heating and cooling equipment that is too small won't deliver when you need it to. Smaller equipment does not have the power to adequately heat or cool the area fully. Generally the system runs too long and wear and tear will be quick and more painful as time goes on.
Replacing the Unit With a Similar Size Won't Work
Older homes did not enjoy the air tight fit that many new models do today. Because a certain amount of air loss was unavoidable, the heating and cooling systems were purposely installed oversized. This gave them the power necessary to do the job.
But when replacing that system, many contractors will simply put in a new one at the same size - or even worse, install something larger. This won't only cost much more initially, but this situation will create an inefficient system.
Proper calculations need to be done before you choose which style and size of heating and cooling system should go in. Have a reputable HVAC contractor visit your home and gauge the proper size. This service may cost you a little, but the pay off will be well worth it when you have a system that is optimized to your home. Make sure the contractor is using certified and approved calculation methods and don't be afraid to ask questions when in doubt.
Heating system design is essential to the comfort level in your home. You'll certainly feel it when a home has under or oversized HVAC systems and with a proper inspection, you can be well on your way to replacing your aging system with something appropriate and efficient.
Posted by: dianaSuggested Reading For You
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