Tips for Buying the Right Size Central Air Conditioning System

Perform a load calculation

The first and most important step in selecting the right size air conditioner is to perform a load calculation. This calculation assesses the cooling requirements of your space, taking into account various factors such as square footage, ceiling height, insulation quality, window size and type, orientation to the sun, and the number of occupants.

The days of manual calculation are behind us. Service Hero uses sophisticated tools to determine the precise cooling load. This ensures that the unit you choose can handle the specific demands of your home or business.

Understand BTUs and Tons

Air conditioners are rated by their cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour or tons. One ton of cooling is equivalent to 12,000 BTUs per hour. Residential central air conditioning units typically range from 1.5 tons (18,000 BTUs) to 5 tons (60,000 BTUs).

You must match the unit’s capacity to the cooling load determined by the load calculation. A common rule of thumb for rough estimates is that one ton can cool approximately 600 to 800 square feet of living space, but this varies based on the specific conditions of your environment.

Consider your local climate

Your local climate and geographic location significantly impact the cooling requirements of your space. Homes in hotter, more humid climates will require more cooling capacity compared to those in cooler regions. For example, a house in Florida will have different needs compared to a similar house in Maine.

Evaluate insulation and energy efficiency

Proper insulation and energy-efficient features of your home or business can reduce the cooling load and allow for a smaller, more efficient air conditioning unit. Make sure that your property is well-insulated, especially around windows and doors, and consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows if necessary.

Factor in occupants and appliances

The number of occupants and heat-generating appliances in your space can affect the cooling load. Each person generates heat, and appliances like ovens, computers, and lighting contribute additional heat to the environment.

Consider future needs

When choosing a central air conditioning system, consider potential future changes to your property. If you plan to add square footage, rooms, or additional occupants, factor these changes into your decision. It may be wise to select a slightly larger unit or a model that can be easily expanded to accommodate future growth.

Consult with HVAC Specialists

If you’d like to consult with trained and experienced HVAC specialists, then call Service Hero to schedule a flexible appointment. We are happy to arrange a face-to-face meeting or on-site visit for as soon as possible.