Portable Air Conditioner BTU Calculator

Cooling Load Formula:

\[ Q = A \times BTU/ft^2 \times F \]

Required Cooling Capacity (BTU/h):

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1. What is a Portable Air Conditioner BTU Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the cooling capacity needed for a portable air conditioner based on room size and other factors.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and professionals select the right sized portable AC unit for optimal cooling efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Q = A \times BTU/ft^2 \times F \]

Where:

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

Explanation: The room area is multiplied by a standard cooling load value (typically 20 BTU/h per ft²) and then adjusted for specific room conditions.

3. Importance of Proper BTU Calculation

Details: Correct sizing ensures efficient operation - too small and it won't cool properly, too large and it will cycle too frequently.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter room area in square feet, BTU per square foot (default 20), 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: For average rooms, use 20 BTU/h per ft². Use higher values for sunny rooms or kitchens.

Q2: When should I adjust the factor?
A: Increase factor to 1.1-1.5 for sunny rooms, kitchens, or high ceilings. Decrease to 0.8-0.9 for shaded rooms.

Q3: How do I measure room area?
A: Multiply room length by width. Include only the area being cooled.

Q4: What about room height?
A: For ceilings over 8 feet, increase the factor by 0.1 for each additional foot.

Q5: Does this include heat from occupants/appliances?
A: The standard calculation includes normal occupancy. Add 600 BTU per additional person or major heat source.