What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
A correctly sized air conditioner can make all the difference in creating a comfortable home. A unit that's too small won't cool a room effectively, leading to hotspots, uneven cooling patterns, higher energy bills and shorter system lifespan.
When selecting an air conditioner size, there are several factors to take into account: room dimensions, ceiling height, windows & doors location and insulation levels. These will help determine which model best suits your needs.
Room Size
The room size of your air conditioner plays a significant role in how well it functions and how much air it can handle. Generally, larger rooms require more power to cool than smaller ones do.
Calculating the room size you'll need begins by measuring the length and width of the area you wish to cool. Then, multiply these figures for a total square footage.
Once you have that number, multiply it by 25 to get the BTU rating your air conditioner needs to provide cooling in your area.
As a general guideline, you'll need approximately 20 BTUs per square foot of area to get enough air moving through your system.
Ceiling Height
When selecting an air conditioner for your space, the ceiling height is an important factor to take into account. This determines how well the unit works and how much energy is necessary to cool your house efficiently.
Residential buildings typically feature ceiling heights of 9 feet, which is the standard height used by building contractors and architects.
Additionally, homes with vaulted ceilings can feature two-story ceilings of up to 18 feet high. This type of design may appeal to those who value an airy and spacious feel that vaulted ceilings offer.
A higher ceiling also allows for better airflow through an air conditioning system, which is essential in keeping your home at a comfortable temperature.
Windows & Doors
Like many homeowners, you likely want your house cooled off before heading outside. Air conditioners are an excellent solution for this; they offer comfort and cost-efficiency in one package. Finding the one best suited to you requires consulting a qualified HVAC expert – American Standard has plenty of qualified professionals available who can assist in determining what size air conditioner you require for your home or business. They may even suggest the ideal window unit if you're searching for a new air conditioner.
Making the right size air conditioner purchase for your needs can save both time and money in the long run. Contact us now to arrange an appointment and discuss what size air conditioner best fits your home's requirements.
Insulation
Insulation plays a vital role in the performance of an air conditioner, particularly when it comes to maintaining consistent temperatures inside homes and reducing energy consumption. Insulation acts as a barrier that prevents heat transfer from outdoors to inside spaces.
Insulating material resistance to heat flow is measured in R-value, with higher numbers representing greater effectiveness. The total R value of all building envelope materials combined provides an important measurement of thermal efficiency that's often used when rating energy efficiency ratings.
Insulation comes in many forms, from bulky fiber materials like fiberglass and rock wool to rigid foam boards and sleek foils. Some materials, like liquid foam, can be poured-in place while others require professional installation.
A correctly sized air conditioner can make all the difference in creating a comfortable home. A unit that's too small won't cool a room effectively, leading to hotspots, uneven cooling patterns, higher energy bills and shorter system lifespan. When selecting an air conditioner size, there are several factors to take into account: room dimensions, ceiling…