What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need For A Trailer In 2023?
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An air conditioner is supportive of summer comfort in the trailer. But installing an appropriate air conditioner depends on several factors.
The journey must start with learning what size air conditioner I need for a trailer.
The fact is, choosing the right size AC unit can only cool you in the summer months efficiently without damaging trailer space, or design, and wasting much energy.
This guide will aid you to decide the right size air conditioner for your trailer to make the summer comfortable.
What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need For A Trailer?
For small trailers, a 12,000 to 13,000 Btu window air conditioner is adequate. If your trailer is a bit large, you can use an AC unit with 18000 BTUs.
The perfect-sized air conditioner depends on the size of the trailer.
Determining the right Air Conditioner Size for Your Trailer
Square-Footage Calculation
The fastest way to determine the right size trailer air conditioner is to work from its sq ft.
If you don’t find the figure from the manufacturer’s guide, multiply its width and length to get the exact measurement.
Single-wides typically range from 500 to 1,200 square feet, while double-wides range from 1,000 to 2,200 square feet.
The next step is to multiply the result with the suggested heating capacity, which refers to BTUs.
Based on the weather, a trailer requires 25 to 30 BTUs per sq ft in mild climates, whereas sterner winters require 45 BTUs per sq ft.
After multiplying the area with the recommended BTUs, you will get the required overall heating capacity.
So, if your trailer is 1000 square feet and you live in a temperate climate, the total heating capacity required is 1000 x 30 = 30000 BTUs.
It isn’t the final number, yet some related factors impact it greatly. The factors are:
Where You Live
The DOE (Department of Energy) divided the USA into different zones based on elevation, climate, and proximity to the sea.
So if you live in the northern states, you need less capacity trailer air conditioners than people who live in Florida.
Despite the people who live in the northern zone can install 13 SEER AC units whereas 14 SEER is standard for people who live in California.
The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) is the measurement of the cooling output during a certain session versus the watt/hour usage.
The higher the SEER, you will require more efficient the AC unit will be.
Location of the trailer Air Conditioner
The position of the trailer greatly affects the energy consumption and the performance of the air conditioner.
So you have to add more BTUs to your calculated capacity based on these factors:
- South-Facing trainers require 10% more cooling capacity than usual.
- North-facing trailers need 10% less cooling capacity than standard.
- Number of Occupants – if more than two-person live in the trainer, add an extra 600 BTU per person with the measured BTU.
Types Of Trailer Air Conditioners
The type of trailer air conditioner that is right for you depends on several factors, including the area you live in, the way the trailer faces, and the quality of insulation in the trailer.
In general, three types of non-ducted air conditioners are perfect for the trailer:
Window Air Conditioners
These units are intended to cool an open space or one room, making them suitable for compact trailer owners.
The capacity of these air conditioners ranges from 5000 to 12000 BTUs, and the larger unit can produce 18,000 BTUs.
Window air conditioners range in price from $600 to $1,200 and can be installed in a window or a wall without taking up any floor space.
These are semi-portable, and you can fit other windows in the trailer as well.
The window air conditioner can block the view from the window and cool only a certain part of the trailer.
Portable Air Conditioners
It’s a cost-efficient option and is perfect for smaller rooms. These air conditioners don’t need to be installed, and therefore, they’re an ideal option as a trailer air conditioner.
Unlike the window AC unit, a portable air conditioner generates 9000 to 12000 BTUs, and the cost ranges from $300 to $600.
The impressive thing about this AC unit is that you can move it around the trailer. But this unit isn’t attractive in appearance and takes up some valuable space.
Ductless Mini Splits
With a combination of comfort and value, the ductless mini-split air conditioner is well suited as a trailer air conditioner. It also avoids allocating space for ductwork.
Despite this, the shallow silhouette and compact footprint make this unit preferable for any trailer.
Ductless mini-splits are the quietest units and very easy to set up, but they are slightly pricy and may require professional aid for installation.
FAQs About Right Size AC For Trailer
What Size AC Unit For A 1200 Square Foot Trailer?
For a 1200 sq. ft. trailer, the minimum heating capacity required is 36,000 BTUs.
Use a 2 ton AC unit that can generate the required BTU to keep the trailer cool.
What Type Of AC Unit Is Ideal For A Trailer?
Ductless mini-split air conditioning is a great option for any trailer.
These come with a compact footprint and ensure comfort at a great value for the trailer.
How Much Space Can A 1.5 Ton AC Cover Of A Trailer?
A 1.5-ton air conditioner can effectively cool an area of 150-160 square feet. you should follow the star rating to get the best size AC unit for your certain size trailer.
Final words
The size of an air conditioner varies based on the trailer size and its surrounding factors.
A certain size AC unit won’t fit all trailers. So instead of asking what size air conditioner I need for a trailer, measure your trailer exactly and follow the formula we discussed above.
Hopefully, you will be successful in determining the right size AC unit for your specific size trailer to feel comfortable on those sunny days.
