How to Check the Capacity of a Heat Pump

The capacity of a heat pump is based solely on the size of the area needing to be heated or cooled.  A heat pump will heat the home and also cool it by removing the heat.  Larger areas will obviously need a larger heat pump.  Determining the size and capacity of a heat pump is not difficult and does not require a professional.

1. Measure the length, height and width of the room you wish to heat or cool.


2. Calculate the area into cubic feet of space.  Heat pumps are categorized based on the size of the space in cubic feet and volume.


3. Determine the volume by multiplying the dimensions.  Volume equals width multiplied by length.  Take the total and multiply it by height to get the total volume in cubic feet.


4. Estimate the number of people who will be in the room a majority of the time.  Each person produces approximately 500 BTUs of heat per hour.  Multiply the number of people per hour by 500.


5. Add the total volume in cubic feet to the estimated BTU heat produced by people.


6. Look at the capacity rating on your heat pump.  If the number you calculated is higher, you may need a larger heat pump.  If the number you calculated is lower, then you have a heat pump that should maintain your heating and cooling needs.