What size air conditioner do I need?

Air Conditioner Buyers Guide and Calculator

Air conditioners are measured by size, efficiency and output. An air conditioner output is measured in kilowatts kW and its capacity is in BTUs or British Thermal Units.  Efficiency is measured using an industry-standard 5-star energy rating system. The more stars the air conditioner has the more efficient it is.

A GUIDE TO AIR CONDITIONER SIZES

When considering the right-sized air conditioner you must take into account the size of the area and its efficiency.

Air conditioners are measured in kilowatts kW and energy ratings. Selecting the right air conditioner can save you a lot of money on your electricity bill. You should pay attention to the kilowatt capacity of the unit for the room it is going to cool or heat. Below is a guide for the air con capacity depending on your room area.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIZE AIR CONDITIONER

Calculate the size of the room or area where you want to install your air conditioner. A simple way to do this is to multiply the length times the width. For example, a room that measures 3 meters x 3 metres will equal 9 square metres.

However, the height of the room is also a determining factor. But to keep it simple we have outlined a guide below that will give you a good estimate on the size of air conditioner you will need.

AIR CONDITIONER CALCULATOR

10-25 square metres

A small kitchen, bedroom, study, small lounge, small office

2.5 kW

25-35 square metres

Bedroom, small lounge, small room with a high ceiling, office, mid-sized kitchen

3.5 kW

35-60 square metres

A large bedroom, bedroom with an ensuite, mid-sized lounge

5 – 6 kW

60-80 square metres

Large lounge, large open plan area, small shop, office

7 – 8 kW

SMALL BEDROOM AIR CONDITIONER SIZE

2.6 kW RANGE
SUITABLE FOR ROOMS APPROX 10 – 25 SQ METERS

• Small Bedrooms
• Study
• Small lounge rooms
• Small kitchens
• Small office

MASTER BEDROOM AIR CONDITIONER SIZE

3.5 kW RANGESUITABLE FOR ROOMS APPROX 25 – 35 SQ METERS

• Master Bedrooms
• Bedrooms that have ensuites
• Study areas
• Small lounge rooms
• Medium size kitchens
• High ceiling small rooms
• Office areas

LIVING ROOM AIR CONDITIONER SIZE

5 – 6 kW RANGESUITABLE FOR ROOMS APPROX 35 – 60 SQ METERS

• Large living rooms
• Bedrooms with ensuites
• Medium size study
• Medium size lounges
• Large kitchen areas
• Rooms with high ceilings
• Office areas

LARGE LIVING ROOM AREA AIR CONDITIONER SIZE

7 – 8 kW RANGESUITABLE FOR ROOMS APPROX 60 – 80 SQ METERS

• Large lounge and dining room combinations
• Open plan living areas
• Small convenience stores and shops
• Office areas

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT SIZED AIR CONDITIONER

When selecting the right sized air conditioner for your property we suggest you talk to an expert. Their experience should be able to guide you to the right heating and or cooling system. Measure out the size of the area including the height from floor to ceiling.