HVAC Calculator
Calculate HVAC sizing using simplified Manual J methodology. Determine BTU needs, tonnage, and system cost for 5 HVAC types including central air, heat pump, mini-split, and geothermal. Accounts for climate zone, insulation quality, and home configuration.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Air Source Heat Pump (5.5 ton) | $22,000 |
| Installation Labor | $6,600 |
| Smart Thermostat | $250 |
| Permits & Inspections | $300 |
| Total | $29,150 |
| System | SEER | $/Ton | Life | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central AC + Gas Furnace | 16 | $3,500 | 18 yrs | Most common, reliable, good for cold climates |
| Air Source Heat PumpSelected | 18 | $4,000 | 16 yrs | Heats and cools, efficient in mild climates |
| Ductless Mini-Split | 22 | $4,500 | 20 yrs | No ductwork needed, zoned control |
| High-Efficiency Gas + AC | 20 | $5,000 | 20 yrs | Premium efficiency, lower operating costs |
| Geothermal Heat Pump | 30 | $8,000 | 25 yrs | Highest efficiency, highest upfront cost |
How to Use HVAC Calculator
- 1Enter home size and configuration
- 2Select climate zone and insulation level
- 3Choose HVAC system type
- 4View BTU sizing and cost comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
How many BTU do I need?▾
A rough estimate is 20-30 BTU per square foot, varying by climate. A 2,000 sqft home in a hot climate needs approximately 50,000-60,000 BTU. Cold climates need more for heating. Proper sizing requires considering insulation, windows, and occupancy.
What size AC do I need?▾
AC is measured in tons (1 ton = 12,000 BTU). A 2,000 sqft well-insulated home in a moderate climate typically needs a 3-3.5 ton system. Oversizing wastes energy and causes humidity problems; undersizing runs constantly without adequate cooling.
How much does a new HVAC system cost?▾
Central AC + gas furnace: $5,000-12,000. Heat pump: $4,000-10,000. Ductless mini-split: $3,000-8,000 per zone. Geothermal: $15,000-35,000. Add $3,000-7,000 for new ductwork if needed. Prices include installation.
About HVAC Calculator
Calculate HVAC sizing using simplified Manual J methodology. Determine BTU needs, tonnage, and system cost for 5 HVAC types including central air, heat pump, mini-split, and geothermal. Accounts for climate zone, insulation quality, and home configuration.
NexTool's HVAC Calculator is completely free to use with no sign-up required. Your data is processed directly in your browser and never sent to our servers, ensuring complete privacy and instant results.
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