Whether you’re building a new home or replacing your existing air conditioning system, there is one question you’re guaranteed to consider: what size air conditioner do I need? Choosing the right air conditioning size is a balancing act. Too large, and you could experience poor humidity control and exorbitant energy bills. Too small, and the unit might not be able to provide comfortable temperatures on extremely hot days. Appropriate air conditioner sizing is crucial to enjoy an efficient, cost-effective and comfortable cooling experience.
Ensuring your air conditioner can generate the perfect cooling capacity is a matter of comfort and cost savings. Here’s why you shouldn’t just guess the appropriate air conditioner size:
Cooling capacity is measured 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. A large percentage of room air conditioners range from 5,000 to 18,000 BTUs. Because central air conditioners are more powerful, they’re usually measured in tons. A one-ton system is equivalent to 12,000 BTUs. Most central AC units range from 1 to 5 tons.
When examining window or portable air conditioners, the right size mainly depends on the room’s square footage. Measure the room—length x width—and match it to the appropriate BTUs:
These general recommendations don’t consider additional factors like interior heat gain or how much sun streams in through the windows of the room. For a more accurate calculation, reach out to an HVAC professional from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
Choosing the perfect size of central air conditioner begins with the home’s square footage, but specific sizing involves a more in-depth look. HVAC Experts rely on load calculations detailed in Manual J to determine a home’s specific cooling requirements. Here are the factors that professionals consider:
Besides knowing what size air conditioner you need, consider these additional factors when installing a new air conditioner:
Finding the best air conditioner size can be stressful. The Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing are here to support you throughout the process. We provide custom cooling solutions to boost home comfort, efficiency and energy savings.
From establishing your precise cooling specifications to helping you navigate different brands and efficiency ratings, we’re at your side at every step. For help picking out 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.
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