What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Whether you’re building a new home or updating your existing air conditioning system, there is one question you’re definitely going to ponder: what size air conditioner do I need? Buying the correct air conditioning size is a balancing act. Too large, and you could face poor humidity control and significant energy expenses. Too small, and the unit might struggle to reach comfortable temperatures on scorching hot days. Correct air conditioner sizing is required to enjoy an efficient, cost-effective and comfortable cooling experience.

The Importance of Sizing Your Air Conditioner Correctly

Ensuring your air conditioner produces the perfect cooling capacity is a matter of comfort and energy savings. Here’s why you shouldn’t merely guess the correct air conditioning system size:

• Humidity control: An oversized unit cools too fast, reducing humidity removal and making your home clammy. A properly sized air conditioner will regulate indoor humidity levels more efficiently.
• Even temperatures: A well-suited air conditioner distributes cool air evenly and reduces unpleasant temperature changes between cycles.
• Peak day performance: An undersized system will struggle to achieve the target temperature on hot summer afternoons, so you need a unit powerful enough to keep up with cooling demand.
• Proper cycling: Air conditioners power on and off with plenty of run time per cycle. Units that are larger than you need cycle too quickly, causing increased wear and tear. Then again, an undersized system runs continuously, which may cause overheating.
• Manageable utility bills: Cycling problems caused by selecting the wrong size of air conditioner lead to higher electricity bills. However, a unit that is the proper size will work effectively and keep your utility bills in check.

Understanding Air Conditioner Size

Cooling capacity is calculated in British thermal units (BTUs). A BTU is a standard unit of energy that indicates the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove every hour. The majority of room air conditioning units range from 5,000 to 18,000 BTUs. Because central air conditioners are bigger, they’re usually measured in tons. A one-ton system is comparable to 12,000 BTUs. Many central AC systems range from 1 to 5 tons.

Sizing a Room Air Conditioner

When considering window or portable air conditioners, sizing mainly depends on the room’s square footage. Measure the space—length x width—and match it to the appropriate BTUs:

• A room measuring 150 to 350 square feet might need a 5,000 to 8,000 BTU air conditioner.
• A room measuring between 350 and 550 square feet could need an 8,000 to 12,000 BTU unit.
• A big room or open area of 550 to 1,000 square feet may call for a 12,000 to 18,000 BTU unit.

These general guidelines don’t consider additional factors like interior heat gain or sun exposure. For a more exact calculation, reach out to an HVAC professional from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.

Sizing a Central Air Conditioner

Choosing the right size of central air conditioner begins with the home’s square footage, but accurate sizing demands a more in-depth look. HVAC specialists rely on load calculations explained in Manual J to determine a home’s unique cooling requirements. Here are the elements that technicians will examine:

• Square footage: The size of your home greatly affects its cooling requirements, with larger homes generally requiring more cooling capacity.
• Local climate: Where you live affects your cooling needs as well. Areas with extremely hot, humid summers naturally demand a higher cooling capacity than cooler, drier areas.
• Interior heat gain: The heat released inside your home can be generated by people, lights, electronics and appliances. Increased internal heat raises your home’s cooling requirements.
• Insulation levels: The quantity of insulation in your walls, attic and floors has effects on how much heat gets into your living space. Well-insulated homes keep cool air more successfully, which lowers the cooling load.
• Air infiltration rate: This relates to how much outside air penetrates through leaks or cracks in the exterior of your home. Homes with a high air infiltration requires more cooling to counteract the warm, humid outdoor air that sneaks inside.
• Home orientation and window layout: The direction your home faces affects its sun exposure, which in turn has an effect on your home’s cooling load. A single-family home with very large south-facing windows absorbs more heat and necessitates a bigger air conditioner than a north-facing condo.

Other Factors to Consider When Buying an AC

Besides knowing what size air conditioner you need, consider these additional factors when installing a new air conditioner:

• Brand: Not all air conditioners are created equal. It’s crucial to select a reputable brand for durability and longevity.
• Efficiency rating: The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) signifies the amount of heat an air conditioner can eliminate per unit of electricity it consumes. Higher SEER ratings represent greater efficiency, minimizing your utility bills.
• Maintenance requirements: Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently. Most AC makers encourage yearly tune-ups to locate and repair small problems before they turn into pricey repairs.

Get Expert Help Sizing Your Air Conditioner From Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Selecting the right air conditioner size can be overwhelming. The Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing are here to support you throughout the process. We offer custom cooling remedies to enhance home comfort, efficiency and energy savings.

From establishing your unique cooling needs to helping you navigate different brands and efficiency ratings, we’re at your side at every step. For help choosing the perfect air conditioner for your home in the U.S., call 866-397-3787 today to schedule your appointment with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.

Save Money on Your Home Comfort System

View our Rebate Center to see which home comfort system rebates are currently active in your area.