Understanding the sizing of your air conditioner can feel really confusing, especially when you don’t even know where to start. It’s okay, you’re not an HVAC expert. ACHV Services is here to simplify things for you.
Let’s start with the basics: Why is proper air conditioner sizing critical? Well, the size of your AC unit matters for your family’s comfort, unit efficiency, and system longevity. Plus, proper air conditioner sizing can help lower your energy bills!
A unit that’s too small won’t be able to cool your home effectively, leading to uneven temperatures and less comfort. A unit too large, on the other hand, will cool your home too fast without dehumidifying properly. (And we can’t have that here in Tampa Bay.) This short cycling could lead to reduced efficiency and excessive wear and tear, shortening the HVAC system’s life expectancy.
At ACHV Services, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Our local pros take into account various factors while determining the right size AC unit for your space. We consider the size of your home, the number of windows, the quality of insulation, and much more. Get some general insights on what we look for here, then call/text our team to find the best new AC unit for you.
How to Determine the Correct AC Unit Size for Your Home
One of the key factors that determine the right AC unit size for a home is the total square footage of the space to be cooled. This is because the cooling capacity of an air conditioner is typically measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. The larger the area, the more BTUs an AC unit will need to effectively cool the space.
A straightforward way to approximate what size AC unit you’ll need is to take advantage of this handy sizing calculator. By entering some basic information about your home, you could get a ballpark figure of the cooling or heating capacity your space requires. (Please note that this calculator provides an estimated value, and we would still recommend getting a professional consultation for precise sizing. Until then, you can use our instant estimate tool for a range.)
What Else Can Impact the Size AC Unit Needed?
Actually, quite a few things can impact the size HVAC unit (or units) you need for proper heating & cooling.
The insulation of the home plays a crucial role in determining the right AC unit size. Homes with better insulation will retain cool air more effectively, reducing the amount of work the AC unit needs to do. This means that a smaller HVAC unit may be sufficient for a well-insulated home.
We love the sun here, but the number of windows in the home, their size, and the direction they face can also impact the size of the new AC unit needed. Windows let in sunlight, which can heat up the home, especially if they face the sun for a large part of the day. More or larger windows may require a larger HVAC system.
Even the layout & design of your home can influence the AC unit size. Open floor plans may require a larger unit as cool air disperses more freely, while a multi-story home may benefit from multiple smaller units to effectively cool each floor.
Beat the Heat with the Right AC System
Appropriate AC sizing tailored especially for your Tampa Bay home is key!
And once your AC unit is installed, remember that regular maintenance services are crucial to keep it working smoothly and efficiently. Regular check-ups and servicing will not only extend the life of your unit but will also keep your energy bills to a minimum.
Don’t hesitate to contact our HVAC specialists for an air conditioner installation or repair job of any scale. We are always here to help you get the most out of your AC system, so you can chill out all year long.
