1. What is Heat Pump Sizing?

Heat pump sizing calculates the appropriate capacity (in BTUs) needed to efficiently heat and cool a home. Proper sizing is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Square footage of the home (sq ft)
• \( Factor \) — BTU per square foot (typically 20-40 BTU/sq ft)
• \( Insulation\ Adjustment \) — Multiplier based on insulation quality (0.8-1.2)

Explanation: The calculation accounts for home size, climate (through the factor), and insulation quality to determine the optimal heat pump capacity.

3. Importance of Proper Sizing

Details: An undersized unit will struggle to maintain temperature, while an oversized unit will short-cycle, reducing efficiency and comfort. Proper sizing is especially important when preparing a house for sale.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure the home's square footage accurately
• Choose factor based on climate: 30-40 BTU/sq ft for colder regions, 20-30 for milder climates
• Adjust insulation factor: 1.0 for average, 0.8 for excellent, 1.2 for poor insulation

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is proper heat pump sizing important for home sales?
A: Properly sized systems are more attractive to buyers as they indicate energy efficiency and prevent future comfort issues.

Q2: What are typical BTU factors for different regions?
A: Northern climates: 35-40 BTU/sq ft; Moderate climates: 30-35 BTU/sq ft; Southern climates: 20-30 BTU/sq ft.

Q3: How do I assess my home's insulation quality?
A: Consider age of home, visible insulation in attic, energy bills, and professional energy audits.

Q4: Should I round up the calculated BTU?
A: Choose the nearest standard size, but it's better to slightly undersize than oversize for efficiency.

Q5: Does this calculator account for ductwork?
A: No, duct efficiency should be evaluated separately by an HVAC professional.