The square footage of your home can provide a starting point for the HVAC system you need. However, any HVAC contractor in Columbia, MO would agree that it's not the only factor. Larger homes will generally need larger HVAC systems. Here are a few other determining factors.

• Climate: Homes in hotter climates will need a larger capacity than homes in milder climates.
• Insulation: Homes with good insulation will need a smaller capacity system than homes with poor insulation.
• Ductwork: Leaky ductwork will reduce the efficiency of your system, so you may need a larger capacity system to compensate.
• Sun exposure: Homes that get a lot of sun exposure will need a larger capacity system than homes that are shaded.
• Number of occupants: Homes with more occupants will generate more heat and need a larger capacity system. 

Here's a rough guide to HVAC size based on square footage and our company's experience:

• 600-1,000 square feet: 1.5 tons
• 1,000-1,500 square feet: 2 tons
• 1,500-2,000 square feet: 3 tons
• 2,000-2,500 square feet: 4 tons

Change your air filter regularly. A clogged filter restricts airflow and makes your system work harder. Check your filter monthly, especially during heavy use months (summer and winter), and replace it when dirty. In our experience, that's at least every three months. 

You'll also want to schedule regular tune-ups. A qualified technician can clean your system, check for leaks, and ensure it's running at peak efficiency. According to Forbes, it's recommended to have your HVAC system serviced at least once every six months (or twice a year). When you need air conditioning and heating repair in Columbia, MO, APM Construction Services can help!

You can optimize your system performance by installing a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of day and days of the week. This way, you can avoid heating or cooling an empty house. Set your thermostat strategically. In the summer, aim for 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.5 degrees Celsius) or higher. In the winter, set it to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) or lower. Our team recommends this because even a few degrees can make a big difference in energy use. 

Lastly, improve the airflow in your home! Keep furniture and curtains away from vents to ensure unobstructed airflow throughout your home. 

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It's a measurement system that tells you how efficiently an air conditioner cools your home over a typical season. In simpler terms, it reflects how much cool air you get for each unit of energy used.

Here's why SEER ratings are important:

• Cost Savings: A higher SEER rating translates to a more efficient system, which means it uses less energy to cool your home. This translates to lower cooling costs on your utility bills.
• Environmental Impact: Less energy use means fewer greenhouse gas emissions. So, choosing a high-SEER air conditioner is a more eco-friendly option.
• Comfort: While not the only factor, a high-SEER system can provide more consistent cooling by operating at variable speeds instead of constantly turning on and off.

Think of it like miles per gallon for your car but for cooling efficiency. Just like you'd prefer a car with better gas mileage, a higher SEER rating is generally better for your wallet and the environment. If you're looking to measure your home's SEER rating, a qualified HVAC contractor in Columbia, MO can help. Contact us today!