How to Tell If Your HVAC System Undersized for Your Home

The HVAC system in your home is a vital component that keeps your home comfortable throughout the year. It is responsible for maintaining your home’s temperature, humidity, and air quality. However, if your HVAC system is undersized, it can cause several problems that affect the comfort and health of your family.

In this article, we will discuss the signs that your HVAC system is undersized.

What Happens If Your HVAC System Is Too Small

An undersized HVAC system is too small to adequately heat or cool your home. It is a common problem when homeowners try to save money by installing a smaller HVAC system than their home requires. An undersized HVAC system can cause several issues, including:

1. Inefficient Heating and Cooling

An undersized HVAC system cannot effectively heat or cool your home. It will struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, leading to discomfort and higher energy bills. Inefficient heating and cooling can also cause your HVAC system to work harder, which can lead to premature wear and tear.

2. Poor Air Quality

An undersized HVAC system cannot filter the air in your home effectively. It will struggle to remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air, leading to poor air quality. Poor air quality can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues.

3. Short Cycling

An undersized HVAC system will turn on and off frequently, a process known as short cycling. Short cycling occurs when your HVAC system reaches the desired temperature quickly and shuts off before completing a full cycle. Short cycling can cause your HVAC system to work harder, leading to premature wear and tear.

4. Increased Energy Bills

An undersized HVAC system will consume more energy than a properly sized one. It must work harder to maintain a consistent temperature, increasing energy bills.

Signs Your HVAC System is Undersized

1. Your Home Takes Longer to Heat or Cool

If your home takes longer than usual to heat or cool, it could indicate that your HVAC system is undersized. An undersized HVAC system will struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, leading to more prolonged heating or cooling times.

2. Your HVAC System Runs Constantly

If your HVAC system runs constantly, it could be a sign that it is undersized. An undersized HVAC system will struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, leading to constant running.

3. Uneven Temperatures

If some areas of your home are warmer or cooler than others, your HVAC system might be undersized. An undersized HVAC system will struggle to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home.

4. Poor Air Quality

If you notice an increase in dust, allergens, or other pollutants in your home, it could be a sign that your HVAC system is undersized. An undersized HVAC system cannot effectively filter your home’s air, leading to poor air quality.

5. Short Cycling

If your HVAC system turns on and off frequently, it’s another telltale sign. An undersized HVAC system will reach the desired temperature quickly and shut off before completing a full cycle, leading to short cycling.

Conclusion

An undersized HVAC system can cause several problems that affect the comfort and health of your family. The points listed above will help you determine if you need to upgrade to a bigger one. Knowing the appropriate size for your HVAC system will ensure optimal comfort and energy efficiency in your home.

If you notice any of the signs listed above, contact Legacy Heating. As the leading HVAC contractor in Edmonton and Calgary, we can assess your HVAC system and recommend the appropriate size for your home. Call us today and request a free quote!