AC Sizing Calculator
The AC Sizing Calculator is a crucial tool for determining the correct cooling capacity required for an air conditioning unit in a given space. Proper AC sizing ensures optimal comfort, energy efficiency, and longevity of the equipment. Undersized units struggle to cool effectively, while oversized units can lead to short cycling, poor humidity control, and wasted energy. This calculator considers factors like conditioned area, ceiling height, insulation quality, window exposure, climate zone, and occupancy to provide an estimated cooling load in BTUs per hour and Tons.
Understanding AC Tonnage & Efficiency: One ton of cooling is equivalent to 12,000 BTU/hr. This refers to the amount of heat an AC unit can remove from a space in one hour. The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating measures an AC's cooling output during a typical cooling season divided by its total energy consumption; a higher SEER means greater energy efficiency. However, an efficient unit that is improperly sized will not perform optimally.
This calculator provides a simplified estimate. Factors like specific window types, air leakage, heat-generating appliances, and local building codes can significantly affect actual AC sizing. For precise sizing, a detailed Manual J load calculation by a qualified HVAC professional is strongly recommended.