💬 From Savvy Mavi:
“Picking the wrong AC size is like wearing the wrong shoe size all summer—it’s uncomfortable, inefficient, and totally avoidable.”
🧠 First: What Does “Tonnage” Actually Mean?
In HVAC talk, “tonnage” refers to how much cooling power your system has. One ton equals 12,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units) of cooling per hour. Think of it like this: the bigger your space—and the hotter your climate—the more BTUs you need to stay cool and comfy.
📏 Step-by-Step: How to Size Your AC Like a Pro (Without Being One)
1. Start With Your Square Footage
Multiply the length × width of each room and add it up. Don’t forget hallways and connected living spaces.
2. Use a BTU Calculator
To get an estimate of how many BTUs you need based on square footage, ceiling height, and climate, use the BTU Calculator by Room Size – PickHVAC.
3. Check the Climate Zone
If you live in a hot state like Texas or Florida, you’ll likely need more tonnage. Cooler states? Slightly less.
4. Factor in Insulation and Windows
Homes with good insulation or energy-efficient windows hold cool air longer. Older homes with lots of sun-facing windows? You may need to bump up your size.
🔧 Rule of Thumb (For Ballpark Estimates)
| Home Size (sq. ft.) | Recommended AC Size (Tons) |
|---|---|
| 600–1,000 | 1.5 Tons |
| 1,000–1,300 | 2 Tons |
| 1,300–1,600 | 2.5 Tons |
| 1,600–1,900 | 3 Tons |
| 1,900–2,200 | 3.5 Tons |
| 2,200–2,600 | 4 Tons |
| 2,600–3,200 | 5 Tons |
✔️ Tip: When in doubt, go with a professional Manual J load calculation. It factors in way more than square footage—like sun exposure, room volume, and local weather data.
🚫 Why “Bigger” Isn’t Always Better
A system that’s too large will:
-
Short-cycle constantly (wearing out the compressor)
-
Struggle to dehumidify
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Use more electricity than needed
Too small? You’ll run the system nonstop and still feel sticky.
👌 Savvy Pick: Match Size With System
Let’s say your home is around 1,500 sq. ft. A 2.5 Ton R-32 Air Conditioner and Air Handler System would likely be a sweet spot—balanced, efficient, and sized right to beat the heat without the extra energy drain.
🏡 Final Thoughts
Buying the right size AC isn’t rocket science—but it does take a little homework. Don’t let vague advice from a big-box store push you toward the wrong unit. You’re smarter than that.
Start with a calculator, check your space, and don’t be afraid to get a pro opinion. When you size your AC right, you feel the difference—every room, every summer.
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