# Sizing Your Home's Heat Pump Correctly Leads to Efficient Operation > When you're choosing a new heat pump, sizing it correctly will ensure that it will perform at the efficiency level the manufacturer promises. Learn more. [![sizing heat pump, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/heat-pump-component.jpg)](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/heat-pump-component.jpg)When you're choosing a new heat pump, sizing it correctly will ensure that it will perform at the efficiency level the manufacturer promises. [![sizing heat pump, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/heat-pump-component.jpg)](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/heat-pump-component.jpg) Heat pumps both cool and [heat homes by moving heat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/heat-pumps-features-and-ratings.html) from one place to another. In the cooling mode, they take it outdoors and in the heating mode, they extract it from the outdoor air and bring it indoors. HVAC contractors use software called Manual J to perform a load calculation on your home that tells them what the size should be in tonnage. The inputs for the Manual J calculation include: - Cubic footage you need to condition - Floor plan layout - Windows, their orientation to the sun and energy efficiency - Insulation levels in the attic, walls and floor - Air infiltration rates - Heat-producing appliances indoors and lighting types - Household size and ages of occupants - Preferred indoor temperatures - Landscaping factors One of the benefits of calculating the size using Manual J is that you can see if [improving the insulation level](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/lower-home-heat-gain-proven-method.html) in the attic and sealing air leaks would make a difference in the size of the heat pump you need. Being able to choose a smaller system will save you money initially and over the life of the equipment. Another significant benefit of proper heat pump sizing is that your system won't short cycle; short cycling means it runs in brief periods and turns on and off frequently. This drives up energy bills, leaves humidity behind and increases wear on the parts. The evaporator coil inside the blower won't get cold enough to remove uncomfortable humidity, leaving you feeling warmer and putting your home [at risk for mold](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/moisture-fighting-strategies.html), dangerous for both you and your home's structure. The system should run for 15 minutes during a cycle for maximum humidity removal. A system that's too small won't be able to handle the worst weather we experience. If you'd like to learn more about a heat pump and proper sizing techniques, contact [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html). We've provided outstanding HVAC services for the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts since 1928. *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/sizing-homes-heat-pump-efficient-operation.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/sizing-homes-heat-pump-efficient-operation.html)