$49 / month O.A.C Including Install
$49 / month O.A.C Including Install

How Large Should My Furnace Be?

24 / 7 Emergency Service Available. Call Us Now: 1.844.894.6832


[BACK]
How Large Should My Furnace Be?

Posted On: November 13, 2024

How Large Should My Furnace Be?

The size of a furnace is typically measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), and the right size depends on various factors such as the size of your home, your climate zone, insulation quality, and the number of windows and doors. Here's a breakdown of what to consider when determining the appropriate furnace size:


1. Square Footage of Your Home

  • Generally, you can calculate the BTUs needed based on your home’s square footage. As a rule of thumb, most homes need between 30 to 60 BTUs per square foot.
  • For example, if your home is 2,000 square feet, a rough estimate for furnace size would be
  • 2,000 sq ft×40 BTUs per sq ft=80,000 BTUs2,000sq ft×40BTUs per sq ft=80,000BTUs

2. Climate Zone

  • Warmer climates require fewer BTUs per square foot, while colder climates need more.
  • Here’s a rough guide by climate:
    • Warm climates (like Florida): 30–35 BTUs per square foot.
    • Moderate climates (like the Midwest): 40–45 BTUs per square foot.
    • Cold climates (like New England): 50–60 BTUs per square foot.

3. Insulation and Windows

  • If your home has good insulation, you might need fewer BTUs. Poor insulation or old, drafty windows can increase the BTU requirements.
  • High-quality windows, doors, and insulation can reduce the furnace size by 10–20%.

4. Ceiling Height

  • Most BTU estimates assume an 8-foot ceiling. If your ceilings are higher, you may need a larger furnace to heat the increased volume of air.

5. Furnace Efficiency

  • High-efficiency furnaces produce more heat per BTU, so you can often go with a smaller size if you’re choosing a furnace with an efficiency rating of 90% or higher.

Example Calculation:

Let’s say you have a 2,000-square-foot home in a moderate climate with good insulation and standard 8-foot ceilings. You might aim for around:


2,000 sq ft×40 BTUs per sq ft=80,000 BTUs2,000sq ft×40BTUs per sq ft=80,000BTUs


If you choose a high-efficiency furnace (like 90% AFUE), you could reduce the size to around 72,000 BTUs.


When in Doubt, Consult a Professional

A qualified HVAC contractor can do a more precise calculation called a Manual J load calculation, taking into account all relevant factors, and recommend the right furnace size. This prevents you from oversizing or undersizing, which can lead to inefficiencies and comfort issues.



[BACK]

See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great service and great people to deal with, from sales to installer. I highly recommend this company.

by GR from Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech replaced our aging furnace and air conditioner recently. I highly recommend this company. Their quote was competitive, they were on time and respectful of our home and extremely professional. From the salesman to the installers and the owner who followed up afterward to ensure we were satisfied, we are very pleased with the service. We are looking forward to working with this company for all of our HVAC needs for the years to come. Excellent workmanship and service!

by nathans in Scarborough on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We wanted to get our AC replaced as it was 22-years old and added to this our furnace was costing more and more to repair. So, we decided to get both the furnace and AC replaced.

After going through a few quotes and product reviews we decided to go with Twintech. The three-men crew arrived early in the morning, wasted no time and got to work right away. By 2:00 pm, they were all done. I’ve found their work to be top notch and they were completely professional. I had all my questions answered to my satisfaction both during the progress of their work and at end.

I have pleasure in recommending Twintech to anyone who is looking to get their furnace or Ac replaced

Nathan S.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Our air conditioner died On a Saturday and within hours Dave came out to take a look and discuss replacement/repair options.
The new air conditioner was installed on the Wednesday. The new unit was installed quickly. The installers were friendly and cleaned up afterwards.
We noticed a slight leak around the furnace that night and they came out the next day and fixed the issue. It has been working great and is quieter than our previous unit.
Very satisfied and would highly recommend TwinTech.

by Nancy in Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I contacted TwinTech to replace my 20-year old A/C. Dave, their service rep, promptly replied and was at my home within 2 hours. He was friendly and knowledgeable and didn't try to upgrade or oversell their A/C units but suggested the best fit for my small 1000 feet bungalow. Although this was during a heatwave and very busy, they were able to fit me in 2 days later. The TwinTech crew installed a 1.5 ton Ducane A/C unit that is now running smoothly while maintaining a constant cooling temperature. The crew were very courteous, professional and efficient and I will definitely recommend TwinTech to family and friends. I much appreciated your great service.
Nancy M., Oshawa

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We had a great experience. The guys who installed our a/c did a nice job. Cleaned up.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

excellent crew, fast and efficient! Would call them again when I need a new furnace.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Professional, courteous and efficient, don’t need to say more than that! Use them you will not regret it.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech was a pleasure to deal with from the estimate through installation. We replaced a 28 year old a/c unit with one recommended by TwinTech's sales representative Dave who took the time to go over the product with us and answer any questions. The warranty is for 10 years parts and labour and they will complete the registration for you. Installation was by Greg (owner) and Mitch and Spencer who were quick and efficient and left everything clean and tidy.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very professional, from the sales consultation and inspection to the final installation. Met every expectations we had for the job. A local business with great client support. We highly recommend. Twintech is a blue chip! Thanks!

Related Links:
oshawa gas furnace problems, ajax furnace inspection, whitby furnace replacement, furnace repairs pickering, oshawa hvac furnaces, pickering gas furnace problems, whitby furnaces, residential furnace, pickering hvac furnace, pickering furnace service, pickering furnaces, oshawa furnace inspection, oshawa furnaces, gas furnace problems, furnace services oshawa, furnace maintenance near me, furnace repair ajax, furnace repair pickering, furnace repair oshawa, furnace replacement, furnace repairs, furnace repair, furnace installations ajax, furnace installations pickering, furnace installations oshawa, furnace inspection,


See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Aaron on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.

by Linda on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

by Robert Mizuno on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

Why is My Furnace Leaking Water?

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - October 16, 2024

A furnace leaking water can be a cause for concern, and several common reasons might explain why this is happening: 1. Condensation Leak (High-Efficiency Furnace) High-efficiency furnaces (AFUE rating of 90% or higher) generate condensation

Read More

Should I Get An Extended AC Warranty?

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - April 16, 2024

Deciding whether to get an extended warranty for your AC depends on a few factors. Firstly, consider the age of your AC unit and its reliability. If it's relatively new or from a reputable brand known for longevity, you might not need one.

Read More

The Importance of Furnace Tune-Ups

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - December 26, 2024

Regular furnace tune-ups are essential for maintaining the efficiency, safety, and longevity of your heating system. Whether you're preparing for the winter chill or ensuring year-round comfort, scheduling a professional tune-up can save you mone

Read More

Preventing a Total Furnace Breakdown

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - January 5, 2025

Preventing a total furnace breakdown is crucial for maintaining a warm and comfortable home, especially during the colder months. Here are some essential steps to ensure your furnace runs efficiently and avoids unexpected failures: 1. Schedule Reg

Read More