If you want to cool your 2200 square feet home during the hot summer months, you must choose the right size AC unit.
An AC unit that’s too small won’t cool your home effectively, while an oversized one can lead to energy wastage and higher bills.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the factors to consider when determining the right AC size for your 2200 square feet home, so you can stay comfortable all summer long.
What Size AC Unit For 2200 Square Feet House?
For a 2200 square feet house, a 34,000 to 36,000 BTU (approximately 3-ton) air conditioner is typically recommended. However several factors should be considered, and a professional load calculation is advised to determine the exact size needed for optimal efficiency and comfort.
| House Size | Recommended AC Size | Recommended Models |
| 1000-1500 | 2.5 Ton (30,000 BTU) | Trane XR14, Carrier Comfort |
| 1500-1800 | 3 Ton (36,000 BTU) | Goodman GSX16, Lennox ML14 |
| 1800-2200 | 3-3.5 Ton (36,000-42,000 BTU) | Rheem RA14, York YCS |
| 2200-2600 | 3.5-4 Ton (42,000-48,000 BTU) | Daikin DX16SA, Amana ASX16 |
| 2600-3200 | 4-5 Ton (48,000-60,000 BTU) | Bryant Legacy, Heil HSA6 |
Different Types of AC Units Suitable for 2200 Square Feet
Central Air Conditioning Units
Central air conditioning units are powerful and efficient, making them a great choice for larger homes like a 2200 square foot house.
They provide uniform cooling but require ductwork and professional installation. A popular model is the Trane XR16.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Ductless mini-split systems offer flexibility as they can cool specific areas. They’re energy-efficient but the installation can be tricky. The Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FH09NA is a reliable choice.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are versatile as they can both heat and cool a home. They’re energy-efficient but may not perform well in extreme temperatures. The Carrier Infinity 20 25VNA0 is a top pick.
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are easy to install and move around. However, they may not be as efficient for larger spaces. The Whynter ARC-14S is a popular model.
Window Units
Window units are compact and easy to install. They’re best for cooling single rooms and may not be sufficient for a 2200 square foot house. The LG LW8016ER is a recommended model.
Factors to consider before purchasing an AC unit
When purchasing an AC unit, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you make the best decision for your home.
Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Size of your home
>> What size air conditioning unit do I need?
The size of your home is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an AC unit.
A unit that’s too small won’t cool your home effectively, while an oversized unit will lead to higher electricity bills.
Energy efficiency
Energy-efficient AC units can help you save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
Look for units with high SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) to ensure that you’re getting a unit that’s energy efficient.
Cost
The cost of the unit is an important consideration for most homeowners.
Keep in mind that while a cheaper unit may save you money upfront, it may cost you more in the long run due to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan.
Noise level
Noisy AC units can be disruptive to your daily life. Look for units with low decibel ratings if noise is a concern for you.
Maintenance requirements
Some AC units require more maintenance than others.
Consider the maintenance requirements of the unit you’re considering and make sure that you’re prepared to perform the necessary upkeep.
How to calculate AC size For 2200 Square Feet House?
Calculating the required AC size based on square footage is a crucial step in choosing the right unit for your home.
Calculate the square footage of your home:
To calculate the square footage of your home, measure the length and width of each room and multiply them together.
Add up the square footage of each room to get the total square footage of your home.
Determine the cooling capacity required:
As a general rule of thumb, one ton (12,000 BTU) of air conditioning can cool 400 square feet of living space.
Divide the total square footage of your home by 400 to get an estimate of the cooling capacity required.
Adjust for specific factors
Keep in mind that certain factors may require you to adjust your estimated cooling capacity.
For example, if your home has high ceilings or a lot of windows, you may need to increase the cooling capacity.
Consult with HVAC professionals
To ensure that you’re getting the correct AC size for your home, it’s always best to consult with HVAC professionals.
They can perform a load calculation to determine the exact cooling capacity required for your home, taking into account factors such as insulation, location, and climate.
How to determine the cooling capacity needed for a 2200 sq. ft. house?
If you have a 2200 sq. ft. house and want to determine the cooling capacity needed, follow these steps:
Step 1: Calculate the square footage of your house
To determine the cooling capacity required for your house, you first need to calculate the square footage of your home.
Measure the length and width of each room in your house and multiply them together to get the square footage of each room.
Add up the square footage of all rooms to get the total square footage of your house.
Step 2: Estimate the cooling capacity required
As a general rule, you’ll need one ton (12,000 BTU) of cooling capacity for every 400 square feet of living space.
To estimate the cooling capacity required for your 2200 sq. ft. house, divide the total square footage by 400.
This calculation gives you an estimated cooling capacity in tons that you’ll need to cool your entire house.
For example, if your house is 2200 sq. ft., divide 2200 by 400 to get an estimated cooling capacity of 5.5 tons.
Step 3: Adjust for specific factors
>> What size air conditioner for 10×10 room?
Although the general rule of thumb is one ton of cooling capacity for every 400 sq. ft. of living space, certain factors may require you to adjust your estimated cooling capacity.
For example:
Ceiling height
If your house has high ceilings, you may need to increase the cooling capacity to ensure that the entire space is cooled effectively.
For every foot above eight feet of ceiling height, add 0.5 tons of cooling capacity.
The number of windows
If your house has a lot of windows, especially large or south-facing windows, you may need to increase the cooling capacity to compensate for the additional heat gain.
Insulation
If your house is well-insulated, you may be able to decrease the cooling capacity slightly since the insulation helps to retain cool air.
Step 4: Consult with HVAC professionals
To ensure that you get the correct cooling capacity for your 2200 sq. ft. house, it’s always best to consult with HVAC professionals.
They can perform a load calculation, which takes into account factors such as insulation, location, climate, and specific features of your house, to determine the exact cooling capacity required.
How to install an AC Unit For 2200 Square Feet House?
Here’s a guide on how to install an AC unit for a 2200 square feet house:
Step 1: Choose the right location for the outdoor unit
The outdoor unit of your AC unit should be placed in an area with good airflow and minimal obstructions.
This ensures that the unit can draw in air and expel hot air effectively. Make sure that the location is at least two feet away from any walls or obstructions.
Step 2: Install the outdoor unit
Once you’ve selected the right location, you can proceed to install the outdoor unit.
First, lay a concrete pad or sturdy surface to provide a stable base for the unit. Then, mount the unit on the pad and secure it in place.
Step 3: Install the indoor unit
The indoor unit should be installed in a location that allows for the even distribution of cool air throughout the house.
This is typically in a central location or a room with high heat gain. Install the unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that it’s level and securely mounted.
Step 4: Connect the refrigerant lines
Next, connect the refrigerant lines that run between the indoor and outdoor units. These lines should be insulated to prevent heat gain and ensure efficient operation.
Step 5: Connect the electrical wiring
Connect the electrical wiring between the indoor and outdoor units, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
This ensures that the unit is powered correctly and operates safely.
Step 6: Test the unit
After installation, test the unit to ensure that it’s functioning correctly. Turn on the power and check that cool air is being distributed evenly throughout the house.
If there are any issues, consult with a professional HVAC technician to troubleshoot and make any necessary adjustments.
FAQs about What Size AC Unit For 2200 Square Feet House
Can a smaller AC unit be used for a 2200 square feet house?
It is not recommended to use a smaller AC unit for a 2200 square feet house as it may not be powerful enough to cool the entire space efficiently. A smaller AC unit may also consume more energy, leading to higher electricity bills.
Can a larger AC unit be used for a 2200 square feet house?
While a larger AC unit may seem like a good idea for a 2200 square feet house, it may not be the most efficient solution. An oversized AC unit can cool the space too quickly, leading to frequent cycles of turning on and off, which can put a strain on the unit and decrease its lifespan. An oversized AC unit may consume more energy than necessary, resulting in higher electricity bills.
How often should I have my AC unit serviced?
It is recommended to have your AC unit serviced by a professional HVAC contractor at least once a year. Regular maintenance can help improve the efficiency and lifespan of your AC unit, while also identifying and addressing any potential issues before they become major problems.
How can I improve the efficiency of my AC unit for my 2200 square feet house?
Some ways to improve the efficiency of your AC unit for your 2200 square feet house include regularly changing the air filters, sealing any air leaks in your home, and ensuring that your home is properly insulated. Using ceiling fans and keeping your blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day can help reduce the workload on your AC unit.
Can a 2.5-ton AC unit sufficiently cool a 2200 square feet house?
No, a 2.5-ton AC unit is typically insufficient to cool a 2200 square feet house effectively; a 3-ton unit is usually recommended for such a space.
Is a professional load calculation necessary for determining AC size?
Yes, a professional load calculation is advised to accurately determine the needed AC size, considering various factors like insulation, window sizes, and regional climate.
Are portable AC units efficient for a 2200 square feet house?
No, portable AC units are usually not efficient for cooling spaces as large as 2200 square feet; central air conditioning or ductless mini-split systems are more appropriate for such sizes.
Conclusion
Selecting the right size AC unit for your 2200 square feet house is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy consumption.
Factors such as climate, insulation, and the number of occupants need to be considered when determining the appropriate size.
Consult with a professional HVAC contractor who can perform a detailed assessment and suggest the most efficient and cost-effective options.
Regular maintenance and adopting energy-efficient practices can also improve the efficiency and lifespan of your AC unit, leading to long-term savings.
