# Installing New HVAC Equipment? A Load Calculation Comes First > Two important reasons exist for conducting a load calculation prior to installing new HVAC equipment. Here's what you need to know. ![installing new hvac equipment, Acton, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/upgrade-efficiency.jpg "upgrade efficiency")Two important reasons exist for conducting a load calculation prior to [installing new HVAC equipment](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/high-efficiency-air-conditioner-offers-low-lifetime-costs.html). Whether you’re purchasing a new air conditioner or heat pump, performing a load calculation helps your installer select the right size of system in terms of capacity, and it gives you the opportunity to improve home efficiency in order to select a smaller system. ![installing new hvac equipment, Acton, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/upgrade-efficiency.jpg "upgrade efficiency") Here’s what you need to know. ## The sizing method Developed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), reputable, experienced contractors [use the Manual J method](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/manual-j-why-your-contractor-should-know-it.html) to calculate a home’s cooling load. (This method can also be used to calculate heating load.) While complicated, the calculation takes a comprehensive look at the home’s efficiency, determining the performance of insulation, air sealing and windows, while also taking into consideration lifestyle patterns such as temperature preferences and equipment inside the home that generates heat. ## Sizing the HVAC system Without a load calculation, your installer would have no other option but to make an educated guess regarding system capacity, taking only the home’s square footage into account. However, during this phase of the installation process, the contractor should conduct a calculation to determine the size using Manual S, also developed by the ACCA. Manual S uses information discovered during Manual J to accurately match the size of the air conditioner or [heat pump](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/heat-pumps-features-and-ratings.html) to the home’s cooling load. ## Benefits of installing new HVAC equipment based on sizing methods Ultimately, the primary benefits of employing industry-leading sizing methods pays off in terms of lower purchase and operating costs. If the load calculation shows the home’s performance is low, make improvements to boost efficiency. Your contractor may suggest air sealing the home, upgrading insulation or simply changing temperature preferences. Making these upgrades before installing new HVAC equipment in many cases allows homeowners to purchase a smaller-sized system at a lower cost. Don’t risk your investment when installing new HVAC equipment. Always begin with a sizing calculation, boost the efficiency of your home and then make the selection. For expert advice, contact [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html) today. We provide HVAC services to the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/installing-new-hvac-equipment-load-calculation-first.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/installing-new-hvac-equipment-load-calculation-first.html)