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 tempInsulation & 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.