What size air conditioner do I need? That question can be a difficult one. Go with something too small, and you’re left with a unit that struggles to cool your space, resulting in decreased comfort and higher energy bills. However, going too big can be just as problematic. While it may seem like a larger unit can cool your space faster, oversized air conditioners tend to short cycle, leading to poor humidity control, uneven temperatures, and—once again—higher energy bills. So, how can you avoid these mistakes and find the perfect fit? Here’s our easy-to-follow guide for determining exactly what size air conditioner you need.
Learn How to Make an Informed Decision Based on Your HVAC Quote!
What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need? It Depends on These Factors
Four primary factors should be considered when determining the size of your air conditioner:
1. Square Footage
The size of your space plays a significant role in determining the cooling capacity required. Larger areas will require a more powerful air conditioner to effectively cool the space.
2. Climate
The climate in your region affects the cooling load on your air conditioner. Hotter climates require higher cooling capacities to combat the heat. As This Old House notes, “A unit with a higher SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating is beneficial in these areas. Milder climates might require less cooling power, meaning you can opt for a lower BTU (British Thermal Unit) A/C.”
3. Insulation
The quality and amount of insulation in your home impact how well it retains cool air. Proper insulation helps reduce the cooling load, which can influence the size of the air conditioner needed. However, if you have excessive windows or poor insulation, you’ll want to add about 10% to 15% to the amount of cooling capacity you’ll need.
4. Sun Exposure
Along with accounting for the number of windows, you’ll also want to note the direction they face. This is because it can affect the heat gain in your home. South and west-facing windows tend to let in more heat and may require a larger air conditioner.
Calculating What Size Air Conditioner I Need
Air conditioner capacity is weighed in tons, which is how much heat the unit can remove from a home in an hour. To determine the appropriate size of air conditioner for your home, you can use the following calculation:
- Calculate the square footage of the area to be cooled.
- Multiply the square footage by 25 to find the amount of BTUhs (British Thermal Units per hour) needed to cool the space
- Convert the BTUs into tons with 12,000 BTUhs = 1 ton.
- Adjust the calculated result based on the factors mentioned earlier.
It’s important to note that this calculation provides a general estimate. For a more accurate assessment, it is recommended to consult with a professional HVAC technician, who can perform a thorough evaluation based on your specific circumstances.
Why Choose ALL Temp Heating & Cooling
When it comes to air conditioner installation and HVAC services, ALL Temp Heating & Cooling stands out as the trusted choice. Our team brings years of industry experience, ensuring that the right size air conditioner is installed in your home. We prioritize customer satisfaction, and our track record of being an Angies List Super Service Award Winner for seven consecutive years attests to our commitment to excellence. With full licensing, bonding, and insurance, as well as accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, you can trust in our reliability and expertise.
Contact us today and let us help you find the perfect solution for creating a relaxing environment for your home.
