What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Whether you’re building a new home or updating your existing HVAC system, there is one question you’re bound to ask: what size air conditioner do I need? Buying the ideal air conditioning size is a balancing act. Too large, and you could encounter poor humidity control and significant energy bills. Too small, and the unit might not be able to maintain comfortable temperatures on extremely hot days. Appropriate 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 conditioning produces the perfect cooling capacity is a matter of comfort and cost savings. Here’s why you shouldn’t merely guess the ideal air conditioner size:

• Humidity control: An oversized unit cools too quickly, preventing humidity removal and making your home clammy. A properly sized air conditioner will manage indoor humidity levels more effectively.
• Even temperatures: A well-suited air conditioner distributes cool air evenly and minimizes irritating temperature changes between cycles.
• Peak day performance: A system that is too small can struggle to achieve the target temperature on hot summer afternoons, so you need a unit large enough to keep up with cooling demand.
• Proper cycling: Air conditioners turn on and off with adequate run time during each cycle. Units that are larger than you need cycle too quickly, leading to additional wear and tear. Then again, an undersized system runs constantly, which may cause it to get too hot.
• Manageable utility bills: Cycling issues caused by choosing 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. Most room air conditioning units range from 5,000 to 18,000 BTUs. Because central air conditioners are bigger, they’re commonly measured in tons. A one-ton system is equivalent to 12,000 BTUs. Most central AC units range from 1 to 5 tons.

Sizing a Room Air Conditioner

When examining window or portable air conditioners, which size you need primarily 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 will probably need to have a 5,000 to 8,000 BTU air conditioner.
• A room that is around 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 necessitate a 12,000 to 18,000 BTU unit.

These general recommendations don’t consider additional factors like interior heat gain or sun exposure. For a more precise calculation, contact a cooling specialist at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.

Sizing a Central Air Conditioner

Figuring out the right size of central air conditioner begins with the home’s square footage, but specific sizing requires a more in-depth look. HVAC Experts rely on load calculations outlined in Manual J to determine a home’s unique cooling requirements. Here are the considerations that come into play:

• Square footage: How large of a home you have greatly affects its AC requirements, with bigger homes generally requiring more cooling capacity.
• Local climate: Where you live impacts your cooling needs as well. Areas with sweltering hot, humid summers generally demand a higher cooling capacity than cooler, drier communities.
• Interior heat gain: The heat produced inside your home can come from people, lights, electronics and appliances. Increased internal heat elevates your home’s cooling needs.
• Insulation levels: The level of insulation in your walls, attic and floors influences how much heat gets into your living space. Well-insulated homes hold cool air more successfully, which lowers the cooling load.
• Air infiltration rate: This refers to how much outside air gets in through leaks or cracks in your home. Homes with a higher air infiltration requires more cooling to combat the warm, humid outdoor air that makes its way through the walls and into your home.
• Home orientation and window layout: The direction your home faces affects its sun exposure, which in turn impacts your home’s cooling load. A single-family home with expansive 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 ACs are created equal. It’s crucial to select a trustworthy brand for durability and longevity.
• Efficiency rating: The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) signifies the total heat an air conditioner can eliminate per unit of electricity it consumes. Higher SEER ratings signify higher efficiency, minimizing your utility bills.
• Maintenance requirements: Regular maintenance keeps your system operating efficiently. Most air conditioner manufacturers recommend yearly tune-ups to catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.

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

Selecting the best air conditioner size can be daunting. The Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing are here to support you throughout the process. We can provide you with custom cooling solutions to boost home comfort, efficiency and energy savings.

From calculating your exact cooling requirements to helping you navigate different brands and efficiency ratings, we’re there for you 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.