When it comes to air conditioning units, bigger isn’t always better.
In fact, having an AC that’s too big for your room can lead to higher energy bills and even higher repair costs. It can also shorten your air conditioner’s lifespan. And a too-small air conditioner isn’t better either as you’ll also experience the same problems.
Instead, you want an air conditioning system that exactly fits your home. This way, you avoid hot and cold spots, sky-high utility bills, and a system that breaks easily.
But how do you determine the size of the AC unit you need?
Today, we’ll share 5 tips to find the best air conditioning unit for you.
#1 – Understand the Different AC Ratings
Contrary to popular belief, your HVAC technician doesn’t install just any AC unit size. They choose one based on AC ratings. This way, they know that the unit will effectively cool every nook of your home while consuming the least amount of energy.
In Canada, we use these two types of rating:
- British Thermal Unit per Hour (BTUH) measures how much energy it takes to remove heat from your room. The BC government recommends having 65,000 BTU/hr or less for a BC air conditioning unit.
- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER or EER) measures how efficiently your AC unit cools your room over a season or year. The higher the SEER, the more efficient your unit is. Ideally, you want a SEER of 14.5 and EER of 11.5.
Pro tip: Your AC rating will also affect the type of air conditioning rebate you can apply for.
#2 – Measure Your Room Size
Both the BTUH and SEER are based on the square footage of your room. To calculate this, you can simply multiply the length by the width.
While you’re at it, measure also your ceiling height. AC units are made for ceilings up to 9 feet—typical for modern homes. As such, if your ceiling is higher than that, you’ll need a more powerful AC.
#3 – Consider Your Room Traits
Aside from room size, you also need to consider the different factors at home that can affect your AC unit’s capacity. For example, a kitchen will need stronger air conditioning than a bedroom because it has more heat-generating appliances, like a stove and oven.
Here are the room traits that affect your AC unit size:
- The climate in your local area
- Exposure to the Sun
- Type of insulation
- Number of exterior doors and windows
- Number of heat-generating appliances in the room
- Number of people using the space regularly
#4 – Check Your Current HVAC System
If you already have an HVAC system, then you’ll have to choose an AC that matches it. This means that your unit should fit your existing ductwork, and it can operate well with your current heating system.
In contrast, if you don’t have an HVAC or ductwork system, it’s more reasonable to install a ductless air conditioning system. Doing so will save you money and the hassle of installing an entire duct system in your home.
#5 – Choose the Type of Air Conditioner
Not all air conditioners are the same. There are different units for different needs. There’s a type of AC that can cool specific rooms or spaces of your home. At the same time, others provide central cooling.
Here are the 4 most common types of air conditioners in BC:
- Central AC
- Window AC
- Hybrid AC
- Ductless Mini-Split
#6 – Consult with a Reliable HVAC Technician
While you can research as much as you want to find the best AC for your home, nothing beats an expert HVAC technician’s years of knowledge and experience.
They’ll be able to compute your AC rating, and they can immediately recommend the best AC unit for your home after a home inspection. In fact, a reliable HVAC technician is qualified to install your HVAC system so that you can apply for BC air conditioning rebates.
Looking for an HVAC professional?
At Mom’s Heating & Cooling, we only do premium HVAC installations and work with top-skilled technicians. Reach out today so you can feel more comfortable and safe in your home.
