Heat Pump Sizing

How do I size a heat pump and the supplemental heating element for my home?

Assuming you've determined that a heat pump is right for your climate, the standard and technical explanation links below describe the only proper way to size both the heat pump itself and the supplemental heating element that is included with all of our heat pump systems.

Here is the simple explanation of how a heat pump is sized:

When sizing a heat pump for your home we begin by determining the required cooling capacity just as we would with any air conditioning system. Heat pumps are offered in the same tonnage increments as you expect from standard air conditioning so pick the proper tonnage based on the cooling requirements of your home.

You can use our climate-based sizing chart to get an idea of sizing based on your climate. We suggest that you complete a Manual J Residential load calculation on your home or that a local contractor visit you to provide a detailed analysis for proper sizing of both the heat pump and supplemental heating element.

Use the AC Unit sizing calculator below to calculate your required central air conditioner and heating system tonnage size. Follow these easy steps:

1. Select the region you live in according to the color keyed map below.
2. Select the system type needed for your home. (Cooling and Heating or Cooling Only)
3. Select the optional heating type. (Gas, Heat Pump, Electric Heat or No Heat)
4. Enter the approximate square feet of the area in your home that you need to heat/cool.
5. Click the "Calculate System Size" button.

Upon calculating your HVAC system size (tonnage), you will be shown a selection of systems that fit your recommended size.

 

 

Once you have determined the sizing requirements for the cooling side of your heat pump system, you then need to select the proper supplemental heating element that is included with all of our heat pumps. If you are replacing an existing heat pump system simply locate your main breaker panel and identify the heating breaker. Look for a number where you grasp the breaker. The following breaker sizes indicate the heating element shown:

• 30 amp - 5.0kw
• 40 amp - 7.5 Kw
• 50 amp - 8.0Kw
• 60 amp - 10.0 Kw
• 80 amp - 15.0Kw
• 110 amp - 20.0Kw

If you are not replacing an existing heat pump system you can use the heating element sizing guidelines below. The average low temperatures shown below are considered to be the average low temperature you would expect to experience just about every winter, not the coldest you would ever expect to see over a 5-year period for example. Central Florida has an average low of 35 degrees but can experience temperatures in the low 20's every 6 or 7 seven years.

Supplemental Heating Element Kw by climate and tonnage

Very warm winter climates (Average low winter temperatures of 35 degrees and up)
1.5 - 3.0 tons Heat Pump - Use a 5 Kw
3.5 - 5.0 tons Heat Pump - Use a 10Kw

Mild winter climates (Average low winter temperatures of 25 degrees and up)
1.5 - 2.0 tons Heat Pump - Use a 5 Kw
2.5 - 5.0 tons Heat Pump - Use a 10Kw

Colder winter climates (Average low winter temperatures of 0 degrees and up)
1.5 - 2.5 tons Heat Pump - Use a 10 Kw
2.5 - 3.5 tons Heat Pump - Use a 15 Kw
4.0 - 5.0 tons Heat Pump - Use a 20 Kw

Coldest winter climates (Average low winter temperatures of -10 degrees and up)

Dual Fuel Hybrid Heat pumps with a gas furnace are recommended for these climates for the best possible heating.