4 Drawbacks of Oversized HVAC Systems | Kitchener ON

November 3, 2021

4 Drawbacks of Oversized HVAC Systems

When you’re thinking of getting a new HVAC system for your home, it can be tempting to think – the bigger the better. That’s simply not true when it comes to your HVAC. Getting an HVAC system that is too large for your home can cause a number of problems you may not have considered. Here are the top four reasons you want to ensure that the system you purchase is the right size for the job.

1. Short Cycling

While it may sound nice to have an air conditioner so powerful that it can cool your house in minutes, this can actually cause an issue called short cycling, which is when your AC turns off and on in rapid succession. This can cause considerable wear and tear on your HVAC system and dramatically shorten its lifespan.

2. Too Hot or Cold

When an HVAC system is too large for home, it cools or heats your house in a fast and powerful blast instead of the gradual process that should be occurring. When your home’s temperature is gradually adjusted, you get more even heating and cooling. HVAC systems with too much capacity can cause hot or cold spots in your house and lead to uncomfortable temperatures.

3. High Humidity

A properly sized air conditioner will dehumidify the air as it is cooled, but a system that is too large doesn’t run long enough for this process to take place due to short cycling. That means that the air in your home may feel damp and clammy if your HVAC is too big.

4. Increased Costs

Finally, not only will an oversized HVAC system likely cost more than you need to be spending, you will also pay for higher energy bills, as the system will use more power as it frequently turns off and on. You also will likely need to replace your HVAC system sooner, as oversized units have a shorter lifespan due to mechanical issues caused by short cycling.

When you are considering buying a new HVAC unit, be sure you have a professional technician who can do a cooling load calculation. This calculation takes numerous factors into account, such as the square footage of your home, number of rooms, number of doors and windows, the climate you live in, insulation levels, the condition of your ductwork and more, to determine what sized HVAC system is best for you.

Contact Advent Air

Advent Air is committed to the quality of the air you and your family breathe every single day. If you’re considering getting a new HVAC system or think that your existing system may be oversized, we can help. Contact us to set up an appointment today.