What Size AC Unit Do I Need?
Finding out what size AC unit you need requires a lot of knowledge and some quick calculations—often with the help of an HVAC professional. Assessing your home’s AC needs is important if you want to maintain comfort and achieve optimal energy efficiency. A unit that’s too small will struggle to cool your home, while oversized units can send energy bills soaring.
In this guide, we’ll look at the key factors that influence the ideal AC unit size as well as other important topics, including:
- Why AC unit size matters
- Factors that determine AC unit size
- The role of J-load calculations
- Consequences of incorrectly sized units
- Choosing the right size for your home
Let’s get into all the details about unit size and the best way to cool your home.
Get Expert Guidance for Your AC Needs—Call Champion Air!
When it’s time to upgrade your AC unit or install an air conditioner in a new home, a little expert advice can go a long way. Champion Air has been in business since 1982, which means we’ve helped consumers just like you for over 40 years.
From AC repairs to installations, our technicians know how to help you get the cool interior you crave. Reach out to our team today for advice on the best AC unit for your needs.
Why AC Unit Size Matters
Air conditioners are not one-size-fits-all products. Selecting the right unit for your home carries several significant benefits.
- Efficient cooling: Properly sized units are ready to cool your home consistently without leaving hot or cold pockets or working overtime.
- Cost savings: The more efficient an AC system is, the more likely it is to use only the required energy rather than running up your utility bill for no reason.
- Longevity: Units that work efficiently tend to have less wear and tear, requiring fewer repairs and lasting longer overall.
Factors That Determine AC Unit Size
As you shop for your new air conditioner, consider what you and your home need.
- Square footage: The first thing to look at is the size of your home. It’s a simple equation—bigger homes almost always require bigger AC units. In Arizona, it’s 400 sq. ft. per ton.
- Insulation quality: Homes with poor insulation and gaps around windows and doors will do a subpar job of “holding in” cool air. That means your AC unit will need more power to keep the home cool.
- Window placement: The number of windows your home has and where they’re placed could influence heat gain. Imagine lots of natural light heating your home as your AC unit works to bring down temperatures.
- Local climate: Homes in Arizona’s hot climate require more robust cooling systems to maintain cool temps.
The Role of J-Load Calculations
HVAC professionals use J-load calculations to quantify each home’s cooling needs. These calculations consider home orientation, occupancy levels, and energy efficiency to create a reliable unit size recommendation. These assessments emphasize precision and are far more trustworthy than simple guesswork.
Consequences of Incorrectly Sized Units
Why spend so much time picking a correctly sized unit? Settling for an AC unit that’s too big or small could lead to an ongoing array of costly problems.
- Undersized units do a poor job of cooling a large home, increasing energy bill and wearing out the unit fast.
- Oversized units can short cycle, meaning they flip on and off frequently. This causes uneven temperatures and wastes resources.
- Inefficient operation in both scenarios above can play out poorly, negatively impacting your comfort and increasing maintenance costs.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Home
Making an informed decision about the AC unit size required for your home can influence everything from your finances to your well-being. Choosing the right size plays a role in maximizing comfort, improving energy efficiency, and saving money.
If you’re still unsure which unit to choose, Champion Air can help. Our experienced HVAC professionals know how to determine the perfect fit for your home’s unique requirements.
Stay Cool with the Perfect AC Unit—Contact Champion Air Today!
Champion Air is a Lennox Premier Dealer and Lennox Partner of the Year. That means we know air conditioner products inside and out. We take great pride in helping our customers find new ways to cool their homes while sticking to their budget and investing in systems that really live up to the manufacturer’s promises.
Call today for help with your new installation and discover the Champion Air difference firsthand.
