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Determining the size of the air conditioner for your home
November 17th, 2010
Catholic Online (www.catholic.org)
In deciding to buy an air conditioner, many people need to determine what size they need. There are different ways to calculate this based on room size and anticipated outside temperatures. The easiest method involves using an air conditioning calculator, and many are available as a free download with you computer or available for use online.
LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Air conditioners, just like heaters are rated in BTU's, the British Thermal Units that indicate the amount of air in cubic feet, and how it will have its temperature altered by one degree in one hour.
For example, a 10,000 BTU air conditioner is supposed to be able to reduce the temperature of 10,000 cubic feet of air by one degree in one hour. Therefore, an air conditioning calculator would show that a 10,000 BTU air conditioner would work in a room with between 350 to 400 square feet with good insulation, with no afternoon sun exposure and no cooking area.
Figuring out the size of a needed air conditioning unit is more than just the size of the home, however, as the amount and quality of the room's insulation will also play a role in determining the need.
Additionally, afternoon sun tends to be hotter than morning exposure and the presence of a kitchen will also increase potential need.
An important thing to remember is that larger units do not work as hard. If using an air conditioning calculator advises that you buy a 13,000 BTU unit and they are available in 12,000 and 15,000 depending on the price difference between the two units, it is best to go with the larger of the two. The air conditioner will not have to work as hard and will be able to cool the room more quickly. Chances are it will not run as often, saving money on the cost of electricity.
You can also estimate the cost of operating each size unit based on monthly and annual cost. While larger units will cost more to operate, a slightly oversized air conditioner may be cheaper in the long run as it runs less.