Selecting the right size air conditioner for your home can feel daunting. The ideal AC unit will keep your St. Louis home cool and comfortable without wasting energy or driving up utility bills. Here’s a helpful guide on how to choose the right size AC unit for your needs.
To learn more or request a quote for your new HVAC system installation, contact the experts at Galmiche & Sons today.
Tips to Choose the Right Size AC Unit
Why Size Matters
When it comes to air conditioning, size does matter. An AC unit that is too small will struggle to cool your home, working overtime and shortening its lifespan. On the flip side, an AC unit that’s too large will cycle on and off too quickly, leading to inefficient cooling, higher humidity, and increased wear and tear.
Understanding BTUs
BTU stands for British Thermal Units and is the measurement used to determine an air conditioner’s cooling capacity. The more BTUs, the greater the cooling power. To gauge how many BTUs you need, you’ll need to consider the square footage of the space you’re cooling. As a basic rule of thumb:
- Up to 350 sq. ft. requires about 8,000 BTUs
- 350 to 550 sq. ft. needs around 12,000 BTUs
- 550 to 1,000 sq. ft. might demand 18,000 BTUs
- 1,000 to 1,500 sq. ft. typically takes 24,000 BTUs
Factors Beyond Square Footage When Choosing the Right Size AC Unit
In St. Louis, where the summers can be hot and humid, additional factors need to be considered when considering how to choose the right size AC unit:
- Ceiling Height: Higher ceilings mean more volume to cool.
- Insulation Quality: Well-insulated homes retain cool air, resulting in better cooling efficiency, and thus may require fewer BTUs.
- Window Size and Placement: Larger windows or those facing the sun can increase the cooling load.
- Room Usage: Kitchens and home offices with more heat-generating appliances may need a higher BTU unit.
Energy Efficiency Matters
When considering how to choose the right size AC unit, don’t overlook energy efficiency. Look for units with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit, which can translate to significant savings on your cooling bills over time.
Ensuring Proper Installation
Even the best-sized unit won’t perform well if it’s not installed correctly. Proper placement of the unit, sealing of ducts, and correct electrical hookups are crucial for peak performance and long-term reliability.
A Professional Can Help with How to Choose the Right Size AC Unit
While these guidelines can give you a good starting point, consulting with a local HVAC professional can provide the most accurate assessment. Galmiche & Sons’ professional technician in St. Louis can perform a detailed load calculation, taking into account all the nuanced details of your home and ensuring you get an AC unit that’s perfectly tailored to your cooling needs.
Galmiche & Sons Technician Knows How to Choose the Right Size AC Unit
Choosing the right size AC unit for your St. Louis home ensures that you stay cool and comfortable during those sizzling summer days. Contact Galmiche & Sons today to learn more about how to choose the right size AC unit from our heating and air conditioning professionals and request a quote for your system install.
