How to Choose the Right HVAC Equipment Size for Your Home

When it comes to home comfort, size matters—especially when you're talking about your HVAC system. Choosing the right size heating and cooling equipment is crucial for maintaining comfort, reducing energy bills, and extending the life of your system. At Van Bremen’s Heat & Air, we’ve helped countless homeowners throughout Somerset, PA and Morgantown, WV avoid the pitfalls of oversized or undersized HVAC units. Here's what you need to know to get it right.

Why HVAC Size Matters

You might think that a bigger HVAC system will heat or cool your home faster and better, but that’s not the case. A unit that's too large will short-cycle—turning on and off frequently—which leads to uneven temperatures, higher energy bills, and excess wear and tear. On the other hand, a system that’s too small will run constantly trying to keep up, resulting in poor comfort and high operating costs.

A properly sized HVAC system:

• Maintains consistent indoor temperatures

• Operates efficiently, saving you money

• Reduces strain on components and extends system life

• Controls humidity more effectively

• Increases overall indoor air quality

Key Factors That Affect HVAC Sizing

1. Square Footage

The total area of your home is one of the most basic inputs in HVAC sizing. As a general rule of thumb, it takes about 20 BTUs (British Thermal Units) per square foot, but that can vary depending on insulation, layout, and other variables.

2. Insulation & Home Sealing

Well-insulated homes require less heating and cooling power. If your home has energy-efficient windows, sealed ducts, and proper attic insulation, your HVAC load can be significantly reduced.

3. Climate Zone

Here in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, our seasons can be extreme. We experience freezing winters and hot, humid summers, so your HVAC system must be capable of handling wide temperature swings.

4. Ceiling Height & Layout

A home with vaulted ceilings or an open floor plan requires more airflow to maintain comfort. Likewise, rooms with large windows or west-facing exposures may need more cooling power.

5. Ductwork Condition

Leaky or improperly sized ductwork can sabotage even the best HVAC system. Before selecting equipment, it’s smart to have your duct system evaluated by a professional.

Understanding Load Calculations (Why a Free Estimate Isn't Enough)

Many HVAC companies will provide a rough quote based only on square footage—but this can lead to sizing errors. The gold standard for determining the correct HVAC size is called a Manual J Load Calculation. This industry-approved process evaluates:

• Square footage

• Insulation values

• Window type and orientation

• Number of occupants

• Duct design and leakage

• Appliances that contribute heat

At Van Bremen’s, we perform proper load calculations as part of our installation process. That means no guesswork—just efficient, customized comfort you can count on.

Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid

• Going Too Big “Just In Case”: Oversizing leads to short cycles and poor humidity control.

• Assuming Your Old System Was Correctly Sized: Older systems may have been installed without proper calculations or your home may have changed (additions, insulation upgrades, etc.).

• Relying on Online Calculators: These tools can give a ballpark number, but they don’t take into account real-world variables like local weather and duct layout.

Let Van Bremen’s Help You Get It Right

We understand that selecting a new HVAC system is a big investment. That’s why our licensed and certified technicians take the time to properly assess your home and guide you through your options. Whether you're upgrading your current system or building a new home, we'll help you find the perfect fit.

Ready for Precision Comfort? Contact Van Bremen’s Heat & Air today to schedule a professional load calculation and estimate. Call us at (814) 442-8618 or visit our website to request your free consultation.

Don’t guess—size it right with Van Bremen’s.