Manual S Equipment Sizing
Right-Sized HVAC Equipment for Maximum Comfort & Code Compliance
At Elements Design Group, we provide accurate, code-compliant Manual S equipment sizing services as part of our complete HVAC system design process. Based on your Manual J load calculation, we determine the right HVAC unit size—not just any size—to match your project’s actual needs.
Oversized equipment wastes energy, shortens system lifespan, and leads to comfort issues. Our Manual S reports help you avoid that—giving you properly sized systems that pass inspection and perform reliably for years to come.
What Is Manual S in HVAC?
Manual S is the ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) standard for selecting and sizing HVAC equipment based on load data from a Manual J calculation. It ensures the heating and cooling units installed in a home are neither oversized nor undersized for the space they serve.
At Elements Design Group, we use certified Manual S calculation methods to align your selected HVAC equipment with the design loads of the building. Every sizing report is prepared using real product specs from trusted manufacturers and is fully compliant with ACCA Manual S guidelines.

What You Get With Our Manual S Service
- Verified Manual S calculation report
- Matches manufacturer data to calculated loads
- Cooling: matches sensible & latent load
- Heating: verified furnace/heat pump sizing
- Complies with ACCA Manual S standards
- Ready for submittal with permitting offices and inspectors
- Compatible with Manual J and S data formats (PDF + XML)
🛠️ Why Correct Equipment Sizing Matters
Installing the wrong-sized HVAC system can lead to:
- Short cycling and inconsistent temperatures
- Humidity control issues
- Reduced efficiency and SEER rating performance
- Increased wear and tear
- Failed energy code compliance
That’s why most jurisdictions now require Manual S documentation along with Manual J and D—especially for energy-efficient homes or when submitting for REScheck approval.


When Do You Need Manual S?
Manual S is required when:
- You’re submitting for an HVAC permit
- Building inspectors request proof of correct sizing
- Projects are part of Energy Star, IECC, or RESNET requirements
- You want to prevent performance issues caused by oversizing
We’ll coordinate all three and ensure consistent data across the entire HVAC system design.
Related Services
If you’re planning your full permit set or HVAC submittal, we recommend bundling with:
We’ll coordinate all three and ensure consistent data across the entire HVAC system design.

Why Choose Our HVAC System Design Services?
Licensed HVAC system designers
Professionally trained and certified to deliver accurate, code-compliant designs.
Easy-to-read reports for permit approvals
Formatted for quick review by inspectors and permit officials — no confusion, no delays.
Fast turnaround and friendly communication
Get responsive support and designs delivered in days, not weeks.
Residential and custom home specialists
Tailored HVAC layouts and load calculations for single-family and custom builds.
ACCA Manual J, D, and S compliant
All designs follow the latest ACCA standards for system sizing and airflow.
Trusted by contractors and homeowners
We support builders and homeowners nationwide with practical, permit-ready designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Manual J calculates how much heating and cooling a home needs.
- Manual S determines what size HVAC system can meet that need based on actual equipment specs.
In short: Manual J = Load, Manual S = Equipment Match.
Manual J and Manual D are two essential parts of HVAC design:
- Manual J = Heat load calculations (how much heating/cooling the home needs)
- Manual D = Ductwork sizing based on airflow requirements from Manual J
Together with Manual S, they form a complete mechanical design package.
Let’s Get Your System Sized Right
Skip the guesswork. Our Manual S calculations help you select HVAC equipment that works—because it’s matched to your project’s real load demands.
Request a Quote
Email :
 info@elementdesigngroup.com
Phone :
(480) 696-1060