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How to Find Out What Size A/C Unit You Need for Your House

Air conditioners only work properly when they are sized appropriately for the space they are in. A small air conditioner in a large house runs constantly, damaging the motor. A unit that is too large for the house it is installed in uses too much energy because it continues to circulate nonstop. Measuring your home correctly helps you determine the proper size for an air conditioning unit.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Calculator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the length and width of each room using a tape measure.

    • 2

      Multiply the length and width of the room to get the square footage.

    • 3

      Measure a triangular room and multiply the length by the width, then divide by two to get the square footage.

    • 4

      Add the square footage from each room together.

    • 5

      Measure the height and width of each window in the home and multiply to get the square footage of each window.

    • 6

      Bring all the measurements to an air conditioner retailer to find the right size for your unit. Check the ratings on each air conditioner box and compare them with your measurements or ask a salesperson.