1. What is a Heat Pump Size Calculator for Canada?

Definition: This calculator estimates the required heat pump size in BTUs based on your home's square footage and regional climate factors.

Purpose: It helps Canadian homeowners and HVAC professionals determine the appropriate heat pump capacity for efficient heating and cooling.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( BTUs \) — Required heat pump capacity (British Thermal Units)
• \( Area \) — Square footage of the space (sq ft)
• \( BTUsPerSqFt \) — Climate factor (typically 30-50 BTU/sq ft in Canada)

Explanation: The calculation accounts for Canada's colder climate by using higher BTU requirements per square foot compared to warmer regions.

3. Importance of Proper Heat Pump Sizing

Details: Correct sizing ensures energy efficiency, proper heating/cooling, and prevents short-cycling or insufficient capacity issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your home's square footage and select an appropriate BTU factor (40 for most of Canada, 50 for northern regions, 30 for mild coastal areas).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are Canadian BTU requirements higher?
A: Canada's colder climate requires more heating capacity to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

Q2: What BTU factor should I use for my region?
A: Use 30-35 for coastal BC, 35-40 for southern Canada, and 40-50 for northern regions.

Q3: Does this account for insulation quality?
A: No, adjust BTU factor upward for poorly insulated homes or downward for energy-efficient buildings.

Q4: Should I round up the calculated size?
A: Heat pumps come in standard sizes - choose the next available size if between options.

Q5: Does this include cooling capacity?
A: Yes, heat pumps sized for heating will typically have sufficient cooling capacity for Canadian summers.