HVAC Load Calculations

As summer temperatures rise, so does the demand on your commercial HVAC system. For facility managers, understanding HVAC load calculations becomes critical to ensuring comfort, energy efficiency, and system longevity.

At Level One HVAC, we believe that informed facility managers make better maintenance and upgrade decisions. Let’s break down what HVAC load calculations are, why they matter most in the summer, and how you can use them to optimize your building’s cooling performance.

What Is an HVAC Load Calculation?

An HVAC load calculation determines how much heating or cooling a building needs to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. It’s measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) and takes into account a range of factors including:

• Building size and layout
• Insulation and construction materials
• Window size, type, and orientation
• Occupancy levels
• Internal heat gains from equipment and lighting
• Outdoor climate conditions

Why Load Calculations Are Especially Important in Summer

During the summer, your HVAC system faces extreme external heat and increased internal loads. Miscalculations during this time can result in:

• Oversized units: Short cycling, higher energy bills, poor humidity control
• Undersized units: Constant strain, uneven cooling, premature breakdown
• Inaccurate energy budgets: Difficulty managing monthly utility costs

Getting your load calculations right ensures your system is sized correctly, runs efficiently, and maintains comfort without overworking.

Key Factors That Impact Summer HVAC Load Calculations

1. Solar Heat Gain
   South- and west-facing windows absorb significant heat. Solar film or shades can reduce this load.
2. Occupancy Levels
   More people = more body heat and CO₂ = more demand on your HVAC.
3. Equipment Heat Output
   Computers, printers, and lighting can generate large amounts of internal heat, especially in office settings.
4. Ventilation Requirements
   Fresh air intake adds to cooling demand because outside air must be conditioned.
5. Humidity Control
   High humidity levels increase perceived temperature. Your HVAC must both cool and dehumidify.

How Facility Managers Can Use Load Calculations

During System Upgrades: Ensure any new HVAC equipment is properly sized for current building conditions—not just based on old specs.

For Energy Audits: Load data can highlight inefficiencies and identify potential savings opportunities.

In Preventive Maintenance Planning: Knowing your system’s load helps plan seasonal inspections and tune-ups.

To Troubleshoot Comfort Issues: Persistent hot zones or humidity problems can often be traced back to inaccurate load assessments.

Real-World Example from Level One HVAC

One of our Detroit-based clients, a multi-tenant office complex, faced uneven cooling and rising summer energy bills. After a full HVAC load calculation, we discovered their rooftop units were oversized for several zones and lacked zoning controls.

Our team redesigned the system layout, replaced oversized units with properly matched models, and implemented a zoning strategy. Result? A 22% reduction in energy usage and drastically improved tenant satisfaction.

Need Help with a Load Calculation?

Whether you’re planning an HVAC upgrade, troubleshooting hot spots, or preparing for peak cooling season, Level One HVAC can help.

We provide professional load calculations, system assessments, and energy-efficient HVAC solutions for commercial facilities across Michigan.

Ready to Optimize Your HVAC This Summer?

Contact Level One HVAC today for a free consultation or schedule a load calculation assessment with our certified technicians.

Toll free: 844-616-HVAC (4822)
Email us: info@levelonehvac.com
Learn more: www.levelonehvac.com

Level One HVAC New Hudson

54000 Grand River Ave, New Hudson, MI 48165

Local# 248-486-6500

Level One HVAC West Branch

3274 West M-76, West Branch, MI 48661

Local# 989-999-HVAC

Level One HVAC Grand Rapids

210 Commerce St, Wayland, MI 48348

Local# 616-616-HVAC