How to Size an Air Conditioner to a Room

In desert states such as California, Arizona or Nevada, an air conditioner is a must. In the summer, the outside temperature can reach upward of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making an air conditioner a must. If a central air-conditioning system is out of the question, using room-based air conditioners can be the next best thing.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Use the tape measure to determine the length and width of the room you are putting the air conditioner in.

2. Multiply the length of the room by the width to get the square footage of the room.

3. Compare the square feet of the room to the maximum square feet the air conditioner can handle. If no square feet is indicated, compare the square feet to the amount of British thermal units (BTUs) indicated on the air conditioner. (See References section for a chart.)

Tips & Warnings

• If you are using the AC in the kitchen, increase the BTW capacity required by 4,000 BTUs.

References

• Energy Star: Properly Sized Room Air Conditioners