There are several ways to evaluate how large of a heat pump a home will need. Because this process can be quite complicated, it’s always best to leave heat pump installation in the hands of a professional.
How Do Technicians Choose the Size of a Heat Pump?
Technicians use a load strategy known as the Manual J Load Calculation to assess the heating and cooling needs of a building. Your home’s insulation level, the amount of space the windows take up, its normal number of occupants, and your area’s weather conditions are just some of the variables that go into the formula.
Your home’s square footage also plays a major role in how large or small of a heat pump you need to install. However, in regions characterized by colder temperatures, like Spokane, it is sometimes necessary to use heat pumps with a greater capacity in order to effectively meet the heating demands of small and large homes.
The number of people living in your home has a direct impact on a heat pump’s efficiency because it impacts your home’s internal heat levels. Homes with several residents sometimes require larger heat pumps. This is especially true in homes with poor window efficiency.
A technician will also consider your home’s ceiling height and ductwork efficiency to choose the right size heat pump. Homes with high ceilings need more air circulation, meaning they need larger heat pumps to keep the home at a comfortable temperature. The same applies to homes with leaky ductwork. However, ductwork efficiency is simple to improve when you invest in ductwork upgrades and repairs.
The Importance of Professional Heat Pump Installation
Proper sizing, positioning, and calibration of a heat pump are essential to its performance. An improper installation may cause inefficiency, increased energy costs, and even safety risks. Avoid this with a professional installation from NORCO Heating & Air Conditioning. We also offer tankless water heater installation and repair, electrical services, and HVAC maintenance plans. Contact us today to have a certified technician help you choose the right size heat pump for your Spokane home.
