Is an HVAC System with More Capacity Better?

One of the United States’ unofficial mottos is “Bigger is better.” Whether it’s an SUV rolling down the road or that new computer everyone’s saving up for, many residents of the United States are more than happy to assume that if something comes in several sizes, the biggest model is undoubtedly the best. Sometimes, that axiom holds true; other times, though, it’s best disregarded.

Take, for example, the capacity of your HVAC system. In this case, you’re looking for efficiency as well as size. When you’re picking your next HVAC setup, here are some factors to think about when it comes to choosing a size, courtesy of your friendly neighborhood HVAC contractor in St. George, UT.

What does HVAC “capacity” mean?

When it comes to gauging how effectively your HVAC unit will heat or cool a given space, professional contractors use the term “capacity.” The capacity of your HVAC system refers to the number of cooling units (properly, BTUs) your setup produces every hour. In other words, if you have a one-ton HVAC system, it is capable of producing 12,000 BTUs every hour.

The general consensus among contractors is that one ton of air (or 12,000 BTUs per hour) is capable of cooling as much as 800 square feet. That said, acquiring the right HVAC system for your home is more complicated than simply dividing the square footage in your home by 800. Consult a talented HVAC contractor in St. George, UT to get the lowdown on the specific needs for your home or business.

Go small or go home

To be perfectly honest, when you are shopping for a new air conditioning system, you should consider purchasing the smallest unit possible for your space. In general, larger air conditioning systems are louder, more costly to operate and less comfortable for your home.

What’s more, HVAC systems tend to get less efficient the larger they get, because a larger system runs several short cycles as opposed to fewer prolonged cycles. That leads to diminished efficiency and more stress on the individual components in your HVAC system. Of course, not all large air conditioning and heating systems are to be avoided, but the general rule is that, more often than not, smaller is better.

One step to success

The key to ensuring your HVAC system runs smoothly for its entire lifespan is to schedule a routine of preventative maintenance with a qualified HVAC contractor. You should have an expert set their eyes on your HVAC system at least twice a year, possibly more if you have a larger system.

When you’re looking for the best HVAC contractor in St. George, UT, there’s only one team to call: Calaway Heating & Air Conditioning. Since 1998, we have established a reputation as the most reliable HVAC contractor for residential and commercial clients alike. We offer a huge selection of services for any kind of heating and air conditioning components, from heat pumps to furnaces.

Make your HVAC issues a thing of the past. Call on Calaway Heating & Air Conditioning today. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Categorised in: HVAC Contractor

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