This first HVAC supplier I called about an quote for a current heating system provided me a price for a model of the exact same specs.
This didn’t seem right to me. Over the years since the original heating system was installed, we’ve made a lot of changes. We’ve updated the roof, added attic installation plus had brand new, ENERGY STAR rated windows installed. We’ve caulked, weather sealed plus added ceiling fans. We’ve torn down walls plus installed sliding glass doors to a back patio. A screened porch was converted into an extra living room. Our kids have gone off to school plus taken us from a family of five to two. All of these changes entirely made a difference in the heat load of the home. I did some research plus learned that HVAC suppliers should complete a Manual J calculation. They should take into consideration more than the size of the old heating system plus square footage of the house, everything from temperature plus windows to insulation plus shade trees make a difference. If a heating system is too small for the demand, it won’t be able to keep up. The heating system will run constantly however fail to give a comfortable home. The longer run times can result in a shorter lifespan. A heating system that’s oversized is almost as bad. The system will achieve temperature setting too hastily plus never achieve peak efficiency levels, short-cycling can be difficult on components plus increase the risk of repairs. I called around plus spoke with five weird HVAC companies before I found one that provides familiar calculations for sizing. They provided a free quote plus back every job with a 100% joy guarantee.