1. What is an Air Conditioner BTU Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the cooling capacity needed (in BTU/h) for a room based on its size and other factors.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and HVAC professionals determine the appropriate air conditioner size for efficient cooling.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Cooling load (BTU/h)
• \( A \) — Room area (square feet)
• \( BTU/ft^2 \) — Cooling requirement per square foot
• \( F \) — Adjustment factor for special conditions

Explanation: The room area is multiplied by the base cooling requirement, then adjusted for factors like sunlight exposure or insulation.

3. Importance of Proper BTU Calculation

Details: Correct BTU sizing ensures energy efficiency, proper humidity control, and prevents short-cycling of the AC unit.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the room area in square feet, base BTU requirement (default 20 BTU/h·ft²), and adjustment factor (default 1.0). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the standard BTU per square foot?
A: Typically 20 BTU/h per square foot, but may range from 15-25 depending on climate.

Q2: When should I adjust the factor?
A: Increase to 1.1-1.3 for sunny rooms, 1.4 for kitchens, or decrease to 0.8-0.9 for shaded/well-insulated rooms.

Q3: How does ceiling height affect this?
A: For ceilings over 8 feet, multiply the result by (ceiling height ÷ 8).

Q4: What about windows and occupants?
A: Add 600 BTU per window and 400 BTU per regular occupant to the final result.

Q5: Is this for central AC or window units?
A: The calculation works for both, but window units typically cover 150-600 sq ft per unit.