Overview
Purchasing an air conditioner can be a pleasant experience if you plan ahead. Waiting until the middle of a heat wave may limit your selection and probably cost you more. Before shopping, carefully compile a list of everything you want your air conditioner to do, where you want to install it and any features you especially want to have.
This is, by far, is the most important point in purchasing an air conditioner. Even the very best air conditioner will do a poor job of cooling if not properly sized. Room Air conditioner sizes (or capacities)are rated in BTUs per hour (BTU/h). The abbreviation BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. Capacities in BTU/h are based on standardized test results at outdoor temperatures of 95(degree symbol)F. If you live in a climate where summer temperatures are consistently above 95(degree symbol)F you will be more comfortable and save money by selecting an air conditioner at, or more than, the BTU/h required. Air conditioners are sized according to BTU/h, with the smallest starting at 5,000 BTU/h and the largest around 60,000 BTU/h. Friedrich manufacturers the largest room air conditioner on the market at 36,000 BTU/h or 3 tons. One ton is equal to 12,000 BTU/h.
If you're buying a replacement unit and were satisfied with its cooling, then there's a good chance that a new unit with the same BTU/h capacity will do the job equally well. However, if the old unit didn't adequately cool on hot summer afternoons, or if you're buying for the first time, then you need to determine the proper size using our Sizing Wizard. This will assist you in determining the approximate BTU/h required for your room and in most instances is all you need. However, if you have an unusual application or installation, then you should consult with a salesperson familiar with air conditioner sizing. The salesperson may be very knowledgeable about air conditioners, but they won't be any help to you unless you provide the necessary information.
