1. What is Heat Pump Sizing?

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard heat pump sizing formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The calculation accounts for your home's size, local climate conditions, and insulation quality to recommend an appropriately sized heat pump.

3. Importance of Proper Sizing

Details: An oversized heat pump will short-cycle (turn on/off frequently), reducing efficiency and lifespan. An undersized unit will struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure your home's square footage accurately
• Choose climate factor: 20-30 for mild, 30-40 for cold climates
• Select 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/hour. Heat pumps are often rated in both units.

Q2: What climate factor should I use?
A: Use 20-25 for warm climates, 25-30 for moderate, and 30-40 for cold climates.

Q3: How do I assess my insulation quality?
A: Poor = older home with minimal insulation, Average = standard construction, Excellent = newer home with high R-value insulation.

Q4: Should I round up the calculated size?
A: Choose the nearest standard size (typically in 0.5 ton increments), but don't oversize by more than 15%.

Q5: Does this calculator work for mini-split systems?
A: Yes, the same sizing principles apply to ductless mini-split heat pumps.