What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need in Florida? A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to choosing the right air conditioner for your home in Florida, there are a few factors to consider. Learn how to calculate the right size air conditioner for your home with this comprehensive guide.

What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need in Florida? A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to choosing the right air conditioner for your home in Florida, there are a few factors to consider. Most people believe that the best way to determine the size of the air conditioner is by looking at the square footage of the house. Generally, a 2-ton system is suitable for a 1,200-square-foot house, a 2.5-ton unit for a 1,400-square-foot residence, and a 3-ton unit for a 1,600-square-foot house. However, it is important to take into account other factors such as the BTU capacity needed to cool your home.

What is BTU Capacity?

The BTU capacity of an air conditioner is measured in tons or British thermal units (BTUs). The size of residential air conditioners usually ranges from 1 to 5 tons in increments of half a ton (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, etc.). To accurately determine the right air conditioner size for your home, it is best to ask an HVAC professional to perform a “manual” load calculation. This calculation takes into account various factors that calculate how much heat must be removed from your home to keep it cool.

How Do I Calculate the Right Size Air Conditioner?

For example, if your house measures 1,800 square feet after subtracting garage space, you'll want a 3-ton system.

Generally speaking, you'll need around 24,000 BTUs to cool 1,500 square feet of living space. However, it is important to calculate the numbers to determine exactly how much capacity you'll need. When calculating the size of air conditioner you need for your home in Florida, it is important to take into account not only the square footage of your home but also other factors such as BTU capacity and manual load calculations. An HVAC professional can help you determine the right size air conditioner for your home and ensure that it is properly installed and maintained. By taking all of these factors into consideration and working with an experienced HVAC professional, you can be sure that you are getting the right size air conditioner for your home in Florida.

Saundra Meynard
Saundra Meynard

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