By For people shopping for a new air conditioner, the most important factors tend to be things like energy efficiency or smart technology — not price. However, another variable that many people often overlook — and is just as crucial — is the size of the AC unit. Selecting the proper capacity for your room can mean the difference between cool comfort and feeling hot and sticky, or between a reasonable energy bill and one that’s out of sight. We advise homeowners in the acquisition of an appropriately sized AC that suits their space and lifestyle.
Why AC Size Matters
The power of an air conditioner is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), indicating the amount of heat and humidity it can remove from a room. If the AC is too small for the room, it will struggle to cool, resulting in constant operation, energy waste, and accelerated wear and tear. If the AC is too big, however, it might cool the room without removing enough humidity from the air; you may feel cool but clammy.
In short, an improperly sized AC equals a waste of energy, higher utility bills and less comfort.
Factors That Influence AC Capacity
Several factors influence the proper size of your air conditioner:
Room Size: The size of your room is the first factor to consider when determining the appropriate BTU capacity. Larger rooms will need more cooling capacity.
Ceiling Height: Rooms with taller ceilings require more cooling because there is a greater volume of air to control.
Sun Exposure: Rooms with larger windows or direct sun exposure will, of course, get hotter and may require an even stronger unit.
Insulation Quality: A well-insulated home’s walls, windows and doors hold in cooler air, so you could be safe choosing a smaller-capacity unit than an inefficient space.
Number of Occupants and Appliances: Both humans and electronics produce heat, so a busy living room or home office may require more cooling power than an infrequently used guest room.
General Guidelines for AC Sizing
The precise calculations will depend on how well-insulated your particular home is, but here’s a general guideline of how to select an AC by room size:
Up to 150 sq. ft. → 5,000–6,000 BTU
150–300 sq. ft. → 7,000–8,000 BTU
300–500 sq. ft. → 10,000–12,000 BTU
500–800 sq. ft. → 14,000–18,000 BTU
800–1,200 sq. ft. → 20,000–24,000 BTU
Remember, these are general guidelines. The actual sizing will vary depending on your home’s design, insulation and how you use your system.
The Benefits of Choosing the Right AC Size
- Use Energy: steer clear of wasting energy, and help you save money every month.
- More Longevity in Equipment: A correctly sized AC won’t overwork itself to death, so that it will last longer.
- Better Comfort: All-around cooling that meets this United!
- Improved Air Quality: Proper size matches your AC to your dehumidification needs, enhancing indoor comfort.
Let Aire One Peel Brampton Assist You
Finding the correct size AC doesn’t need to be difficult. At Aire One Brampton Heating and Cooling, we’ll evaluate your home’s floor plan, insulation and system capacity to meet any cooling needs. Whether you are replacing an old unit or installing a new one, we’ll ensure your air conditioner is the perfect size for your space.
Ready to stay cool this summer with an efficient, reliable cooling system? Contact Aire One Peel Brampton today and discover our expert advice on selecting the ideal air conditioner for your home.
