Installing a new air conditioner isn’t just about picking a brand or model. One of the most important factors that affects performance, energy efficiency, and long-term comfort is the size of the unit itself. Selecting the wrong size can lead to everything from high energy bills to uneven cooling and unnecessary wear on the system.
When you hire a professional for air conditioning installation, one of the first steps should always be a thorough sizing evaluation. Here’s why proper AC sizing matters and how professionals calculate the right fit for your home.
What Does AC Size Really Mean?
In the HVAC world, air conditioning size refers to its cooling capacity, not the physical dimensions of the unit. Cooling capacity is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour or in tons. One ton of cooling equals the ability to remove 12,000 BTUs of heat per hour.
Larger homes typically need air conditioners with more cooling power, while smaller homes require less capacity. However, square footage alone isn’t enough to determine the right size.
Problems Caused by an Undersized Air Conditioner
If the AC unit installed in your home is too small for the space, it will struggle to keep up with cooling demands. This leads to:
- Constantly running equipment that never reaches the target temperature
- Higher energy bills due to nonstop operation
- Uneven cooling with hot spots in larger or sun-facing rooms
- Accelerated wear and tear, leading to frequent repairs and premature failure
Problems Caused by an Oversized Air Conditioner
Bigger is not always better when it comes to air conditioning. An AC that is too large for your home will cycle on and off too frequently, which can cause:
- Short cycling, which reduces energy efficiency and increases wear on components
- Poor humidity control, since the system doesn’t run long enough to remove moisture from the air
- Inconsistent temperatures, with some areas becoming too cold while others remain warm
- Unnecessary energy costs due to overpowered equipment
How Professionals Calculate the Right AC Size
Proper sizing starts with a professional load calculation. This evaluation considers not just square footage but a wide range of factors that influence how much cooling power your home needs.
Factors Included in a Load Calculation
- Total square footage of your home
- Number of windows and their orientation
- Insulation levels in walls, floors, and attic
- Ceiling height
- Number of occupants
- Heat-generating appliances
- Local climate conditions
- Sun exposure and shading around the home
By factoring in all these elements, professionals can recommend an AC unit with the right cooling capacity to match your home’s unique needs.
The Role of Ductwork in Proper Sizing
Even if you install a perfectly sized air conditioner, it won’t perform well if your ductwork is inadequate. Ducts that are too small, leaky, or improperly routed can restrict airflow, forcing the AC to work harder than necessary. As part of a professional installation, technicians inspect your ductwork to ensure it can support the new system.
Benefits of Proper AC Sizing
Choosing the right size for your air conditioner offers benefits that last for the life of the system, including:
- Lower energy bills thanks to optimized performance
- Even cooling throughout the home
- Improved humidity control for better comfort
- Longer lifespan with less wear and tear
- Fewer repairs caused by system strain or short cycling
Don’t Guess—Get Professional AC Sizing and Installation
When it comes to air conditioning installation, cutting corners on sizing can lead to years of discomfort and wasted energy. If you’re considering a new air conditioner, contact Superb Heating & Air at (708) 890-8285 to schedule a professional consultation. Our experts will ensure your system is properly sized, expertly installed, and ready to deliver reliable comfort for years to come.