When you’re upgrading the HVAC equipment in your Yuma home, you’ll no doubt compare the energy efficiency ratings and features of different models. To benefit fully from the investment, though, you also need to have an HVAC professional size, select and install the equipment. To do this accurately, a pro uses Manuals J, S and D calculations from the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). Each manual serves a different — yet critically important — role in the process:
Manual J
Manual J calculations are performed first to determine how much conditioned air is needed in each room of the home. Various factors go into the calculations, including the home’s orientation and square footage, the type and location of windows, as well as the air leakage rate and insulation level. Other factors are input too, including your home’s energy-consuming equipment and appliances, lighting and number of occupants.
Manual S
Next, Manual S is used to match equipment with the specific conditions in your home. The Manual J results are compared to characteristics like static pressure, amount of air moved and capacity to ensure the equipment chosen is sized correctly. If equipment that’s too large or too small is installed, problems can develop in the future with temperature and humidity control, excessive energy consumption and premature wear and tear on the components that shortens their expected service life.
Manual D
Manual D is used last to plan an effective ductwork design, which is vital for your HVAC equipment to operate properly at maximum efficiency. These calculations ensure that the ducts in your forced-air system are sized correctly so conditioned air gets distributed as needed throughout the home. A number of variables go into the calculation, including the friction rate and static pressure in each room, the ductwork material, distances to each register, the air handler’s location and how much airflow (CFM) is needed to heat and cool your home.
If you’re planning a new HVAC equipment purchase for your Yuma home and want to learn more about accurate sizing using Manuals J, S and D, contact us today at Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about Manuals S, D, and J and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 928-723-3183.
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