How to Size Air Conditioning Systems

Air conditioning systems come in different sizes. It is important that you properly size an air conditioning system before you buy it. The wrong size air conditioning system can lead to inefficient cooling of a room. The wrong system can also make your utility bill much higher than it has to be.

Supplies needed:

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  Pen or pencil

  
  


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  Paper

  
  


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  Measuring tape

  
  

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  Start by knowing the measurements of the room that you will be cooling with the air conditioning system. Sometimes you will know the measurements without having to take actual measurements. If you don't know the measurements, use a measuring tape to take the measurements. Write down the numbers.

  
  


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  Go to your local home appliance store with the measurements that you have. The sales staff will be able to show you an air conditioning system that will cool the room in an efficient manner. If the room is rather small, you will be pointed to a smaller air conditioning system. A larger room will require a much larger unit to properly cool it.

  
  


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  Use BTUs. This is also an effective way to size air conditioning systems. Knowing the measurements of a room will allow you to estimate how many BTUs that your air conditioner should be able to handle. For example, a 250-square foot room will need an air conditioning system capable of 6,000 BTUs. It is also advisable to add 500 BTUs for each person that will be in the room.

  
  


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  Take sunlight into consideration. If the room gets a lot of sunlight, you will need to add five to 10 percent to your estimate on BTUs.