Around here, your AC is a must to keep cool, fresh air flowing through our homes. But an AC system is only effective if it is properly sized for the square footage of your house. Otherwise, you’re asking for weaker performance, faster wear-and-tear, and even a hit to your monthly energy bill.
This blog will help you know what to expect when installing a new AC unit. Reach out to our HVAC technicians; our local pros can help you determine the proper size air conditioner for your home. Call us anytime.
Why HVAC Size is Important
When selecting the best HVAC system for your home, size is a crucial determining factor. Too small of a unit won’t do its job to keep your home cool or warm, while too large of a unit will be a waste of money and energy.
Plus, an undersized system will have to work overtime to get your home to the right temperature, so it will wear out much faster, costing you more in the long run.
AC Unit Sizes
Generally, residential air conditioner units range from 1.5 to 5 tons (or, 18,000 – 60,000 BTUh; this represents how much heat in BTUs an air conditioner can remove from your home over an hour). These ratings are in increments of .5 tons, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5-ton AC units.
To calculate the best capacity unit, you first need to know the square footage of your home or the room you’re working with. Multiply this number by 25 to determine the number of BTUs needed to cool your space.
While you can use the formula to help you estimate the best-sized AC unit for your house, the most accurate (and honestly easiest) way is to call an HVAC company. You can trust us to provide a precise assessment of the right-sized AC equipment for your space.
Picking the Right-Sized AC Unit
The main, and most obvious, factor for picking the right sized system is the square footage of your home, but this isn’t the only variable that plays a role.
You will also need to consider:
- Climate
- Home exterior, such as color and material
- Shade and sun exposure
- Insulation
- Windows
- Ceiling height
- Heat generating appliances
With so many factors in selecting the best size AC system, you’ll want to rely on a licensed expert. Call on the reliable team at ACHV – we care about your air. We’ll calculate what’s needed in your space and find what is called a “load calculation”.
Other AC Sizing Considerations
First, just because two AC units have the same cooling capacity, they could have very different SEER ratings. (This is how energy efficient it is.) For example, when looking at two different 4-ton AC systems, one unit might be rated at 13 SEER, and the other a much more efficient 19 SEER.
Also, the size of your AC unit must be compatible with your ductwork. The wrong-sized ducts can cause similar problems to the wrong-sized AC system. Your ductwork should be sized for your home, optimal airflow velocity, friction loss, and the HVAC systems’ static pressure.
Learn More > Tips to Extend Your Air Conditioner Life Span
Call ACHV for A+ AC Installs
Having the right AC system is too important here in Tampa Bay. At ACHV Services, we want you to understand how to pick the right size air conditioner. However, for maximum efficiency, we recommend relying on a reputable HVAC technician to consider all of the variables.
Ultimately, calling on our pros at ACHV Services will help you get the most out of your money so your home stays comfortable all year long! Call (727) 453-2432 or (813) 917-2982 today whether you need a new AC system or a simple inspection.
