What is a heat load calculation?

A heat load calculation determines how much heating and cooling capacity your home needs to maintain comfortable temperatures. It considers factors like climate, insulation, windows, and building size to recommend the right furnace and AC size.

CSA F280-12 is the Canadian standard for determining the required capacity of residential heating and cooling appliances. It provides a methodology for calculating heat loss and heat gain based on your specific location and building characteristics.

How accurate is this calculator?

This calculator provides a reasonable estimate based on simplified CSA F280-12 methodology. For precise equipment sizing, especially for heat pumps or complex installations, we recommend a professional heat loss assessment by a certified HVAC contractor.

What size furnace do I need?

Furnace size depends on your heating load, which is calculated based on your location's design temperature, home size, insulation quality, and other factors. This calculator provides a recommended BTU/h range for your furnace.

Heat Load Calculator (Canada)

Estimate your home heating and cooling requirements based on CSA F280-12 methodology. Get BTU/h calculations for furnace and AC sizing.

Back to Calculators

Where is your home located?

We use your location to determine the design temperatures for your region.

Province/Territory

City

CSA F280-12 Design Temperatures

Your location determines the outdoor design temperatures used in the calculation. These are based on historical weather data (2.5% design conditions).