1. What is Heat Pump Sizing?

Heat pump sizing determines the appropriate capacity (in BTU) 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 basic heat pump sizing formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Square footage of the house
• \( Factor \) — Climate factor (20-40 BTU/sq ft)
• \( Insulation\ Adjustment \) — Multiplier based on insulation quality (0.8-1.2)

Explanation: The calculation accounts for home size, local climate conditions, and insulation quality to determine the optimal heat pump capacity.

3. Importance of Proper Sizing

Details: An oversized heat pump will short cycle (turn on/off frequently), reducing efficiency and comfort. An undersized unit will struggle to maintain temperature. Proper sizing ensures optimal performance and energy efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure your home's total square footage
• Select climate factor (20-25 for mild, 30-35 for moderate, 35-40 for cold climates)
• Choose insulation quality based on your home's construction

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between BTU and tons?
A: 1 ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTU per hour. Heat pumps are often rated in both units.

Q2: Should I round up the calculated size?
A: It's recommended to choose the nearest standard size (typically in 0.5 ton increments) without significantly oversizing.

Q3: What if my home has high ceilings?
A: For ceilings over 8 feet, add 10% to the calculated BTU requirement for each additional foot.

Q4: Does window quality affect sizing?
A: Yes, homes with single-pane windows or many large windows may need adjustment (typically +10-20%).

Q5: Is this calculator suitable for commercial buildings?
A: No, commercial buildings require more complex calculations accounting for occupancy, equipment, and ventilation needs.