Summer is fast approaching, and it's that time of year when you'll want to bust out your air conditioner to stay cool during the warm months. However, before you go out and purchase a new unit or upgrade your old one, there's one vital factor to consider – size. It's essential to choose the right-sized air conditioner to cool your space effectively.

This post will go over everything you need to know about sizing it right and selecting the correct size air conditioner for your space.

Understanding Cooling Capacity

Air conditioning capacity is rated in BTU or British Thermal Units – it's the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove from your space per hour. Choosing the right capacity will depend on the size of your room, and you can use a BTU calculator to help you determine the right size unit. If your room is larger, you'll need a higher BTU rating to provide adequate cooling.

Assess the Size of Your Room

Your room's size is an essential consideration when selecting the right-sized air conditioner. Measure the length, width, and height of your room to get its square footage. Once you have the square footage of your room, compare it against the BTU ratings of different air conditioners to determine the right size for your space. Ensure that you factor in other factors, such as high ceilings, sun exposure, and room usage, to get an accurate BTU rating.

The Importance of SEER

SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is another essential factor to consider when sizing your air conditioner. It measures your unit's efficiency at converting electrical energy into cooling capacity. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient your unit will be, with a reduced electricity bill. You might pay more upfront for an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating, but it will save you money in the long run.

Seek Professional Help

If you're unsure about sizing your air conditioner or are struggling to make these calculations, seeking professional help is invaluable. An experienced HVAC contractor can help you determine the right size unit for your space and advise on SEER ratings and other vital factors to make an informed purchase decision. Plus, having a professional install your air conditioner ensures your unit operates at optimum efficiency.

Maintenance Matters

Once you've purchased and installed your correctly sized air conditioner unit, regular maintenance is vital to ensure it lasts as long as possible and runs optimally. Change the filter regularly, keep the condensing unit clean, and have annual maintenance servicing to identify potential problems early and ensure your unit continues to provide adequate and efficient cooling.

To learn more about air conditioning installation services, reach out to an HVAC contractor in your area.

Share