When it comes to buying or upgrading an air conditioning system, one of the most important factors is proper sizing. Air conditioner sizing refers to determining the correct capacity of the system required to effectively and efficiently cool your home. At Galmiche & Sons, we help homeowners in the St. Louis area make informed decisions that avoid costly sizing mistakes and maximize long-term comfort.
To learn more about air conditioner sizing or for help selecting the best new air conditioner for your home, contact our team today.
Why Proper AC Sizing Matters
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that bigger is always better. However, oversizing or undersizing your air conditioner can result in a range of problems:
- Oversized systems cool too quickly and then shut off, leading to short cycling. Oversized air conditioner problems include uneven temperatures, excess humidity, and higher energy bills.
- Undersized air conditioner systems run constantly in an attempt to keep up with demand, leading to overworked components and premature system failure.
Getting the size right is critical for optimal performance, energy efficiency, and indoor comfort.
How Air Conditioner Sizing Is Calculated
Professional HVAC contractors like Galmiche & Sons use a detailed process to determine the right system size. This process includes a Manual J load calculation, which evaluates:
- Square footage of your home
- Insulation levels
- Window and door placement and quality
- Ceiling height
- Local climate conditions (such as the St. Louis region’s hot, humid summers)
- Number of occupants
- Heat-generating appliances and lighting
By analyzing these factors, we can recommend the appropriate size air conditioner measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) or tons.
Common Sizing Mistakes Homeowners Make
Skipping Professional Calculations
Some homeowners opt for rule-of-thumb estimates or guesswork, often resulting in an improperly sized system.
Replacing Old Units with Same Size
Many people assume that if the old AC was a certain size, the new one should be too. However, your home may have changed due to renovations, insulation upgrades, or new windows.
Prioritizing Price Over Performance
Choosing a smaller, less expensive unit may save upfront costs, but it can lead to high utility bills and frequent repairs in the long run.
At Galmiche & Sons, we prioritize precision, experience, and customer satisfaction to ensure the right fit for every installation.
Benefits of a Properly Sized AC Unit
- Energy efficiency: Avoid overworking your system and reduce your monthly bills.
- Comfort: Consistent cooling throughout your home without hot or cold spots.
- System longevity: Reduce wear and tear and avoid premature system failures.
- Better humidity control: Prevent moisture-related issues like mold and mildew.
FAQs About Air Conditioner Sizing
How do I know if my current AC is the wrong size?
Can I perform my own AC sizing?
Does a bigger home always need a bigger unit?
Will Galmiche & Sons help me choose the right size?
Call the Experts at Galmiche & Sons
Air conditioner sizing is one of the most important decisions you will make when installing or replacing your AC system. With decades of experience serving homeowners throughout the St. Louis area, Galmiche & Sons is the trusted name for HVAC expertise, accurate sizing, and reliable installations.
If you are considering a new air conditioner or need a professional second opinion, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We also offer furnace repair services and full HVAC maintenance plans to keep your entire system running smoothly year-round.
Call Galmiche & Sons today or fill out our online form to request an estimate for your new HAVC system or schedule service. Let us help you choose the perfect air conditioner size for your home.
