“What is the Right Size AC Unit for My Home?”
Thinking about getting a new AC unit? Finding the right size air conditioner is more important than you might think, especially if you’re living somewhere toasty like Miami. Choosing the right size will impact your unit’s efficiency, performance, and longevity. A poor sizing choice leads to higher energy bills, increased wear and tear, and an overall decrease in home comfort.
Factors that Impact AC Unit Sizing
Calculating the appropriate size for an AC unit is complex. These are some things that we consider when adding it all up:
Square Footage
The square footage of your home is the big kahuna when it comes to sizing your AC.
The bigger your place, the more powerful your AC needs to be. We measure this power in BTUs (British Thermal Units), but don’t worry about the technicalities; remember, a bigger home equals more BTUs.
Understanding Heat Gain/Loss and Environmental Factors
It’s not just about size. Your home is a lot more complicated than that. Think about how much sun you get: Does your place bake in the afternoon sun, or is it nice and shady? How’s your insulation? What’s your ceiling height? These factors can make a big difference in how hard your AC needs to work.
Household Size and Habits
There’s more to consider, though. How many people live in your home? More bodies mean more heat. Do you love to cook up a storm in the kitchen? That’ll add some heat, too.
Location
Where you put that AC unit matters. If you can tuck your outdoor unit in a shady spot, it’ll thank you by using less energy to do its job.
Windows
When sizing your AC unit, consider the type of windows (single-pane vs. double-pane), their orientation, and whether they have shading (like blinds or curtains). South- and west-facing windows let in more heat than north- and east-facing ones.
Performing a “Manual J” Calculation
If you really want to get precise, you might hear about something called a “Manual J” calculation. That’s shop talk for “let’s look at every little thing that could affect your AC needs.” Usually, you’d get a pro to do this for you.
Measuring AC in Tons
You might hear AC sizes talked about in “tons.” Don’t worry; we’re not talking about weight here. In AC-speak, one ton equals 12,000 BTUs per hour. As a rule of thumb, you might need about 1.5 tons for every 600 square feet, but remember – that’s a rough guess.
Check With a Pro
Given the complexity of correctly sizing a central air conditioner, always consult with an AC technician. A pro from One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating can take a look at your specific situation and help you find the perfect fit.
Getting the right-sized new air conditioner is about more than just being comfortable (although that’s a big plus). It’s also about saving energy and making your AC last longer, so it’s well worth taking the time to get it right.
When you’re ready to take the plunge, give us a shout. We’ll arrive right on time to make sure you get the cool, comfy home you deserve.