Do I Need A Bigger Home AC System?

If your home never quite feels cool enough, you might be wondering: "Do I need a bigger AC system?" While it seems like a larger unit would fix the problem, bigger isn't always better. An oversized air conditioner can be just as bad as an undersized one, leading to inefficiency, high energy bills, and uncomfortable temperature fluctuations.

Signs Your AC Might Be Too Small

1. Your Home Feels Warm Even When the AC Runs Constantly

An undersized AC system will struggle to cool your home, running non-stop but never reaching the desired temperature. This often happens when the system lacks enough power to meet the cooling demand of your space.

2. Certain Rooms Stay Hotter Than Others

If some areas of your home remain warm while others cool down, it could indicate the AC lacks the capacity to distribute air evenly throughout the house, especially in larger homes with multiple levels.

3. Your Energy Bills Are Extremely High

An undersized AC has to work harder and longer to maintain comfort, consuming excessive energy. This leads to unusually high energy bills compared to homes with properly sized AC units.

4. Your AC Struggles on Hot Days

If your system only works well on mild days but fails to keep up when outdoor temperatures rise, it likely does not have enough cooling capacity to handle extreme heat.

5. Your AC Freezes Up

When an AC unit overworks itself trying to cool a space beyond its capability, it can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. This reduces efficiency and leads to further performance issues.

How to Choose the Right Size AC for Your Home

1. Get a Professional Load Calculation

HVAC professionals use the Manual J Calculation to determine the correct AC size based on factors like square footage, insulation levels, number of windows and doors, and local climate.

2. Use the BTU Rule of Thumb

BTU stand for British Thermal Unit. A general guideline is 20 BTUs per square foot of living space, but this varies based on ceiling height, sun exposure, and the layout of the home.

3. Consider Zoning Systems

If different areas of your home have varying cooling needs, a zoning system may be a more effective solution than simply increasing the AC size.

When to Call a Professional

Choosing the right AC size is critical for comfort, efficiency, and longevity. If you suspect your AC is too small—or too big—don’t guess. Call Air Masters and our HVAC experts will assess your needs and recommend the perfect solution.

Stop guessing and start calling Air Masters today!