Oversized heating and cooling equipment is not recommended because of higher initial costs and additional costs to operate (higher utility bills). Heating and cooling systems that are not sized properly will also not run efficiently, and will wear out faster as a result of short cycling. Short cycling is where a heating or cooling system turns on and off for brief periods instead of having longer running times. Short cycling can result in noticeable variations in heat and cooling as opposed to a more consistent home temperature. In addition, an oversized air conditioner does not dehumidify well, because short run times do not remove enough humidity from the air. This can lead to comfort issues, and cause people to set the thermostat temperature lower than necessary to combat the 'mugginess' in a home. For more information take a look at the U. S. Department of Energy Energy Savers web page on Sizing Heating and Cooling Systems .

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