What size air conditioner do I need?

Key points to help you make an informed choice

Investing in and setting up air conditioning in your home or commercial property represents a substantial financial commitment. Therefore it's important to make an informed decision so you can purchase and install the most appropriate system for your property and personal needs. Whether you're upgrading your current AC system or making an initial purchase, there are certain factors to take into consideration. The installation of an air conditioning unit is not merely a luxury as was once thought many years ago. In certain regions of Queensland, it's more of a necessity due to the sweltering and humid climate to help with your comfort and overall well-being. Investing in air conditioning will yield many immediate benefits and add resale value to your property.

Choose an AC based on your property characteristics

Opting for the right dimensions and design, whether for your home or business, guarantees a pleasant and energy-efficient ambiance to the desired space, so it's important to look at all aspects. The architecture and attributes of your dwelling and the structure will greatly influence your selection of air conditioner size and style. You can start by determining the necessary cooling capacity for your area, then take into account local climate, energy efficiency, noise emission, and the quality of the brand. To break it down, an air conditioning setup that might work well for a compact apartment is highly likely to be unsuitable for a spacious, freestanding house. For example, a ducted air conditioning system would not be appropriate for residences lacking space between the ceiling and the roof, as this type of system requires room for its ducts and indoor units. In contrast, apartments in multi-story structures have the option of incorporating a bulkhead unit or a wall-mounted split system aircon. Another factor to take into consideration is do you require climate control for an entire residence or business space or only specific rooms.

Important aspects to consider when choosing an Air Conditioner

We've compiled a list of factors to take into account when choosing an air conditioning system, ensuring that your home or office's climate control requirements are effectively met.

Size - room size (width & length) as well as ceiling height
Flooring - the flooring material can affect the recommended aircon size eg tiled floors can be cooler needing an increased heating function.
Insulation - ceiling and/or wall insulation, as well as other features such as window coverings, awnings, shading trees, double glazing, and eves, can passively keep heating or cooling in & weather out, reducing your home climate control needs.
Calculate the Cooling Capacity Needed - you can then check this against the manufactures product information, alternatively, you can seek assistance from an air conditioner specialist.
Consider room characteristics - Adjust the cooling capacity based on factors such as room orientation, ceiling height, insulation, and the number of occupants. For example, if the room receives direct sunlight or has poor insulation, you may need to increase the cooling capacity by 10-20%.
Climate If you reside in a hot and humid climate, you may want to opt for a slightly larger unit to handle the increased cooling demand.
Energy Efficiency - Look for air conditioners with high energy efficiency ratings (EER or SEER) to ensure cost-effective cooling. Energy-efficient units may have lower cooling capacities but can still cool effectively.
Noise Level Consider the noise level of the air conditioner, especially if you plan to install it in a bedroom or study. Check the decibel ratings of various models and choose one that suits your preferences.
Brand and Quality - Select reputable brands known for their reliability and durability. Investing in a high-quality unit can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

A brief explanation of Air Conditioner types

Air conditioning manufacturers have introduced a range of primary styles to cater to the specific needs of the consumer and the variety of different applications. Each of these styles is available in both cool-only and reverse-cycle models to accommodate the majority of climate control needs. To help determine the most suitable style it's beneficial to begin by considering your local climate. For instance, in regions like southern Queensland, where winters can be chilly and summers exceedingly hot and humid, opting for reverse-cycle air conditioning makes logical sense. On the other hand, warmer areas of Australia might lean towards cool-only models to ensure comfort during scorching summers, with milder winters that don't demand extensive heating.

Reverse Cycle air conditioning

A reverse cycle air conditioner, also known as a heat pump, is an air conditioning system that can both cool and heat a space. It offers the ability to reverse its refrigeration cycle, allowing it to provide both cooling during hot weather and heating during cold weather. Reverse-cycle air conditioners are typically more expensive upfront compared to single-purpose cooling systems. However, their long-term energy savings and year-round functionality make them a popular choice for those seeking both cooling and heating solutions in a single unit.

Single Split System air conditioning

A single-split system air conditioner, also known as a ductless air conditioner or ductless mini-split, is a type of air conditioning system that consists of two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. It is designed to provide cooling (and sometimes heating) to specific zones or rooms in a building without the need for extensive ductwork. Split system air conditioners are popular for residential homes, apartments, offices, and commercial spaces where individual temperature control and energy efficiency are desired. Their versatility, ease of installation, and ability to provide both cooling and heating make them a flexible and convenient air conditioning solution.

Multi Split System air conditioner

A multi-split system air conditioner, also known as a multi-zone system, is a type of air conditioning system that consists of one outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. It is designed to cool or heat multiple rooms or zones within a building independently. Unlike the single-split system AC that has one indoor unit and one outdoor unit, with the multi-split system you have one outdoor unit connected to two or more indoor units allowing for simultaneous cooling or heating in different areas of your home or business.

Ducted Air Conditioning Systems

Ducted air conditioning is a type of central air conditioning system that provides cooling and heating to an entire building or multiple rooms through a network of ducts. It is designed to deliver conditioned air to different areas of a building through vents or diffusers installed in the ceilings or walls. Ducted air conditioning is commonly used in larger residential homes, commercial buildings, offices, and other spaces where centralized control and uniform climate control are desired. Professional design and installation are essential to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and comfort.

Leading Air Conditioner brands

The benefits of Installing the correct size AC unit

Comfort: A properly sized air conditioner ensures that your indoor space remains cool and comfortable, especially during hot and humid weather. It helps regulate the temperature, reduce humidity, and create a pleasant living or working environment for occupants.
Energy Efficiency: An accurately sized air conditioner operates more efficiently, leading to energy savings. Undersized units may struggle to cool the space, running continuously and consuming more energy. Oversized units, on the other hand, tend to cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy. By choosing the right size, you optimize energy usage and reduce utility bills.
Longevity: Air conditioners that are correctly sized for the space tend to have a longer lifespan. They don't have to work as hard to cool the area, reducing wear and tear on the components. Additionally, properly sized units are less prone to breakdowns and can handle the cooling demands effectively, extending their operational life.
Temperature Control: A properly sized air conditioner allows for precise temperature control. It can maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the space, ensuring that occupants are neither too hot nor too cold. This is particularly important in areas where temperature fluctuations can affect productivity or well-being.
Humidity Control: Air conditioners also play a vital role in controlling indoor humidity levels. Excess humidity can lead to mold growth, musty odors, and discomfort. A correctly sized unit effectively removes moisture from the air, maintaining optimal humidity levels for a healthier and more pleasant indoor environment.
Cost Savings: Choosing the right size air conditioner can result in long-term cost savings. Energy-efficient units with accurate cooling capacities consume less electricity, lowering your utility bills. Additionally, properly sized units require fewer repairs and replacements, reducing maintenance costs over time.
Environmental Impact: Energy-efficient air conditioners not only save you money but also contribute to a greener environment. By reducing energy consumption, you decrease the carbon footprint associated with cooling your property.

Don't just take “Pot Luck”

Making a decision on most things in life can be a somewhat daunting and confusing task. And this can also apply when deciding on a suitable air conditioning system. While guessing the required size might be tempting, and quicker it's crucial to recognize that neglecting crucial considerations could lead to potential negative issues. This is precisely where air conditioning experts can offer invaluable assistance, as they assess your space and take essential factors into account before offering tailored advice. Common errors consumers make is installing an air conditioner that's too large resulting in energy wastage by overcooling or overheating the area. On the other hand by installing a unit that's too small so it is forced to work excessively, consuming extra energy to maintain the desired temperature.

Trusted Air Conditioning Specialists

All Purpose Air Conditioning has a wealth of knowledge with air conditioning, we can assist with your aircon questions or specific AC needs simply call 1300 405 295 to speak to one of our technicians. Our services cover areas including Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Gympie, and the Gold Coast.

References https://www.choice.com.au/home-and-living/cooling/air-conditioners/buying-guides/air-conditioners