HVAC Equipment Sizing Calculator (Manual J Estimator)

Estimates residential heating and cooling loads using Manual J simplified methodology to help size HVAC equipment properly.

Building Dimensions

Climate & Location

Difference between indoor setpoint (70°F) and outdoor design temp

Insulation & Construction

Occupancy & Internal Gains

Formulas Used

Conductive Heat Loss/Gain: Q = U × A × ΔT

Infiltration Load: Qinf = 0.018 × CFM × ΔT, where CFM = (Volume × ACH) / 60

Ventilation Load (ASHRAE 62.2): CFMvent = 0.01 × Afloor + 7.5 × (Noccupants + 1)

Solar Gain: Qsolar = SHGC × Awindow × Isolar × orientation factor

Latent Cooling Load: Qlatent = Qsensible × latent fraction (varies by climate zone)

Duct Loss: Total Load = Subtotal × Duct Multiplier (1.00–1.20 depending on duct location)

Tons of Cooling: 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr

Assumptions & References

  • Based on ACCA Manual J 8th Edition simplified residential load calculation methodology.
  • This tool provides a preliminary estimate only. A full Manual J calculation by a licensed HVAC professional is required for equipment selection, permits, and code compliance.

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