Everyone loves the idea of summer days and nights until they remember the heat that comes along with it. You can blast all the fans you want, but the only thing that’ll help you get through it is your indoor air conditioning.
If you’re buying a new unit for your home, you’ll have to consider which AC sizes are best. Not all AC dimensions are the same, and a more affordable option may be too small to properly cool and heat your building.
Here’s how to calculate the size of an AC unit right for your home and how the type of unit can affect it.
What Size AC Unit Do I Need for My Home?
Calculating the AC size you should purchase will depend on the British Thermal Units (BTU) needed. BTU refers to the amount of energy your unit uses to remove heat from your home within a single hour.
An average home with an area of 2,400 square feet will need about 34,000 BTU. Most residential air conditioners range from 18,000 to 60,000 BTU.
There are multiple factors that can affect an AC unit’s needed BTU. For example, homes with multiple floors take longer to cool if they’re working under a singular central system. The addition of an attic space can also force a unit to work harder since attics are more likely to leak air.
Types of AC Unit to Consider
Not every home requires or uses the same kind of air conditioning units. In some cases, you can have the energy load split between multiple units in different rooms.
A window AC unit only goes up to 12,500 BTU which makes it good for single rooms. If you opt for a split air conditioner, then you’ll also get a less powerful unit since the air is only pumped into certain select rooms.
The AC dimensions for central air are much higher since it’s meant to handle an entire building. As such, you’ll want to properly calculate the appropriate size before installation.
Installation Tips
First of all, make sure you purchase the correct size unit for your home. Your HVAC contractor should be able to help approximate how powerful you need it to be.
One of the mistakes to avoid is placing your thermostat in the wrong area. You should place it in a spot away from direct sunlight and away from doors and windows. Also, avoid somewhere with a nearby air vent.
You may need to repair or replace your current ductwork. Older ductwork that isn’t properly sealed can limit your AC’s efficiency.
Purchasing the Right AC Sizes
Buying the right AC sizes can help you save money on the initial cost, allow you to run your AC fewer times throughout the day, and make your home a more comfortable space overall. Just remember to reach out to your local contractor for help with AC size calculation.
Interested in learning about finance and home life topics? Check out our other articles for more tips and advice.
