What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

03/28/2023

A broken air conditioner is the last thing you need on a sweltering day. In Tennessee, the transition into warm weather comes quickly, and you don’t want to be unprepared. Use these tips to prepare your AC for summer and help

Close up image of AC air conditioner handler

Why AC Unit Size Matters

Our HVAC technicians come across heating and cooling systems in spaces that they aren’t designed for all the time. When your AC unit is too big for the space it’s cooling, AC short cycling occurs. This is a common problem that leads to complete AC unit failure.

If your system is too small, your AC works overtime without effectively cooling the space. In both cases, your power bills increase, and your HVAC system fails sooner than it should.

Air Conditioner Sizing Variables

The leading factor for selecting an appropriate air conditioning system is the square footage and ceiling height of your space. Here are some additional variables that impact how efficiently your system will cool your home.

Existing Ductwork

If your home or office has an existing and functioning air duct system, your new AC unit must be compatible with it to function properly. Mismatched systems waste energy and, therefore, money. If you need to replace your ductwork, the best time to do it is when you replace your AC unit.

Insulation

Your home or office’s insulation plays an important role in keeping cool air inside your space. The more effective your insulation, the more efficient your air conditioning system performs.

Exterior

Your home or office’s exterior affects how much heat is absorbed or reflected. Light exterior colors reflect sunlight and heat, while materials like brick absorb and retain heat. 

Windows

While windows bring natural light into your home, they can also be the escape route for your cool indoor air. Single-pane windows are especially energy inefficient. The more you have in your home or office, the more indoor air escapes and the harder your air conditioning needs to work.

Get a Professional Energy Assessment

The best way to find an HVAC system that fits your home or office is to call the experts at Chancey & Reynolds. Our NATE-certified technicians can accurately determine what size commercial or residential air conditioner you need.

We are happy to provide residential and commercial energy assessments to determine your HVAC needs. Our highly-trained team offers honest advice and professional recommendations backed by our 40+ years of residential and commercial HVAC experience.

Air Conditioning Installation

Chancey & Reynolds’ experienced, certified technicians have decades of experience installing cooling systems of all makes, models, and types. Our professionals thoroughly evaluate your home’s design to recommend the best-fit systems and maximize your comfort level and quality of life.

Air conditioning installation is just one of Chancey & Reynolds’ many new equipment installation offerings. We are experts in new equipment installation, including geothermal heat pumps, smart thermostats, air filtration systems, and natural gas piping.