What Size AC Do I Need for My Florida Home?
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Choosing the right air conditioner size for your Florida home isn’t just about comfort — it’s about energy efficiency, performance, and long-term savings. An AC unit that’s too small won’t cool your home properly, while one that’s too large will short-cycle, waste energy, and wear out faster.
At Perfect Air, we help homeowners across Pensacola, Pace, Navarre, and surrounding Florida communities choose the right AC size for their space. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of HVAC sizing, share a BTU chart, and explain how you can get expert help with an AC size calculator or consultation.
Why AC Size Matters
Your AC system’s size is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) or tons. Both reflect how much cooling power your unit provides. Getting it right ensures:
- Even cooling throughout your home
- Lower energy bills
- Longer equipment life
- Better humidity control (especially critical in Florida)
AC Sizing Rule of Thumb: BTUs per Square Foot
While there are many variables (like insulation, windows, and ceiling height), a general rule is:
20 BTUs per square foot of living space
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AC Size Chart for Florida Homes
| Home Size (sq. ft.) | Recommended BTUs | Tonnage |
|---|---|---|
| 600 – 1,000 | 12,000 – 18,000 BTU | 1 – 1.5 Ton |
| 1,000 – 1,300 | 18,000 – 24,000 BTU | 1.5 – 2 Ton |
| 1,300 – 1,600 | 24,000 – 30,000 BTU | 2 – 2.5 Ton |
| 1,600 – 1,900 | 30,000 – 34,000 BTU | 2.5 – 3 Ton |
| 1,900 – 2,200 | 34,000 – 40,000 BTU | 3 – 3.5 Ton |
| 2,200 – 2,600 | 40,000 – 48,000 BTU | 3.5 – 4 Ton |
| 2,600 – 3,000+ | 48,000 – 60,000 BTU | 4 – 5 Ton |
Florida Tip: Because of our high humidity and heat, it’s often better to go slightly larger — but not too large — and ensure the system has excellent humidity control features.
Why You Shouldn’t Guess Your AC Size
While online AC size calculators are helpful for ballpark estimates, they can’t fully account for:
- Ceiling height
- Sun exposure and shading
- Window size and placement
- Ductwork layout
- Number of people in the home
- Appliance heat load
That’s why professional load calculations — known as Manual J calculations — are the gold standard.
How Perfect Air Determines the Right AC Size for Your Home
When you schedule a consultation with Perfect Air, our licensed technicians will:
- Measure your square footage
- Evaluate insulation and ductwork
- Assess sun exposure and window layout
- Consider lifestyle and cooling preferences
- Perform a full Manual J Load Calculation
From there, we’ll recommend a system that’s properly sized and optimized for Florida’s climate — maximizing comfort while minimizing energy use.
Need Help Choosing the Right AC for Your Florida Home?
Don't make an expensive guess — let the experts at Perfect Air help you find the perfect fit. Whether you're replacing an old unit or installing new, we’ll ensure your HVAC system is correctly sized and energy-efficient.
