Sizing Your AC Unit: How to Determine the Right Size
The size of your AC unit depends on a variety of factors, each one individual to the homeowner. The size refers not to the physical size of the unit, but the energy expenditure and cooling capacity measured in BTUs.
BTUs, or British Thermal Units, measure the amount of heat energy an HVAC system can remove or produce in one hour. For air conditioners, a higher BTU rating indicates a more powerful unit capable of cooling larger spaces. Conversely, for heating systems, a higher BTU rating means more heat output. Accurately determining the required BTU for your home is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort.
If you want to stay cool this summer in Raleigh, consider the following factors:
Consider the Square Footage of Your Home
One of the biggest factors in determining what size of air conditioner you require will be the square footage of your home. If you live in a small 800-square-foot house, you simply won’t need a system as powerful as someone who lives in a 2500-square-foot dwelling to get the same level of cooling. In these cases, it is more efficient to invest in a larger or smaller unit as necessary for the space.
Calculate Heat Gain and Loss
These factors will be highly dependant on the age of your home and the improvements that you may or may not have made to it over the years. A well insulated home with new windows will experience far less heat loss than one that is over 100 years old with minimal renovations. You can calculate heat loss and gain by considering the direct sunlight that hits your home and for how many hours per day, your insulation quality, the age of your windows, ceiling height, and how many doors you have.
Consider the Local Climate
The amount of power that your unit is going to need is going to depend largely on your climate. Raleigh, NC is located in a more temperate and warm portion of the United States. As a result, you may wish for a stronger air conditioner than someone residing in North Dakota. This will enable your system to handle the heat efficiently at a level that it was designed to do, rather than a weaker system working over time to compensate.
Consider Your Needs and Budget
Simply put, different people have different needs. Someone who lives in a 300-square-foot apartment may only require a simple window unit installation to stay cool this summer in Raleigh, NC. Likewise, someone who lives in a smaller house or who only needs air conditioning in select areas of the home may do wonderfully with a mini split installation. Others may require full home cooling in a large space, in which case central air installation may be the most appropriate option for them.
You might even want to consider a mini-split ductless unit. Mini-split systems offer several advantages over traditional HVAC units, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. Their energy efficiency, ability to control individual room temperatures, flexible installation, quiet operation, and improved air quality often outweigh the higher upfront costs of an HVAC unit and duct instillation.
Consult an HVAC Technician
Finally, you may wish to consult a professional. At Bowman Heating and Cooling, our technicians know the ins and outs of installing air conditioner units in Raleigh. We can help you to find the best cooling solutions for your family. Contact us today to learn more!