When it comes to cooling a mobile or manufactured home, choosing the right air conditioner is not just about comfort, it’s about efficiency, longevity, and saving money on energy costs. The unique construction and layout of mobile homes present different challenges than traditional site-built homes, which makes correct mobile home AC sizing absolutely critical.
At Galmiche & Sons, we have decades of experience helping homeowners across the St. Louis area find the perfect cooling systems for every home type including mobile home AC units. This guide offers expert insights to help you understand the key considerations in sizing and selecting the best system for your mobile or manufactured home. To learn more about air conditioner sizing for your home or request a new HVAC system quote, call us today.
Why AC Sizing Is Different for Mobile and Manufactured Homes
Unlike conventional homes, mobile homes typically have:
- Smaller square footage
- Thinner walls with less insulation
- Lower ceilings
- Less sophisticated duct systems (or sometimes none at all)
These factors significantly impact how much cooling power is needed and how that power is delivered. Overlooking these differences can lead to an air conditioner that is too powerful (oversized) or not strong enough (undersized) for your home’s needs.
Learn more about oversized air conditioner unit problems
How to Choose the Right Mobile Home AC
Step 1: Measure Square Footage
The size of your mobile home is the starting point. As a general rule:
- A 600–1,000 sq. ft. mobile home typically needs a 1.5 to 2-ton AC unit.
- A 1,000–1,400 sq. ft. home may need a 2.5 to 3-ton unit.
However, square footage alone isn’t enough. Other factors, such as insulation levels, ceiling height, number of windows, and regional climate, all play a role in determining the correct BTU or tonnage.
Step 2: Consider Ductwork (or the Lack of It)
Many mobile homes either lack ductwork or use a smaller, less efficient system. If your home does not have ducts, a ductless mini-split AC system may be the best option. These systems are energy-efficient, easy to install, and ideal for homes with unique cooling challenges.
Step 3: Account for St. Louis Climate
St. Louis summers are hot and humid, which means your AC unit will be working hard during peak months. Systems must be sized to handle high heat loads while maintaining energy efficiency. At Galmiche & Sons, we take local weather patterns into account for every installation.
Common Problems with Poorly Sized Mobile Home AC Units
High Energy Bills
Oversized systems short cycle and waste energy. Undersized systems run constantly and never cool properly.
Inconsistent Comfort
Poor sizing results in hot spots, cold spots, and uneven airflow throughout your home.
Moisture and Humidity Issues
An oversized system may cool quickly without removing enough humidity, leading to a damp, sticky feeling indoors.
System Wear and Tear
Improper sizing leads to overworking your unit, reducing its lifespan and increasing maintenance costs.
Galmiche & Sons: Your Trusted Mobile Home AC Experts in St. Louis
Our team uses professional load calculations and hands-on experience to determine the right AC size for your mobile home. We also:
- Offer both central and ductless cooling options
- Provide free estimates
- Recommend energy-efficient models that qualify for rebates
- Deliver clean, professional installations with lasting results
When you work with Galmiche & Sons, you get trusted guidance from a team that understands the unique cooling needs of non-traditional homes.
FAQs About Mobile Home Air Conditioning
Can I use a window unit in my mobile home?
Is a mini-split system a good choice for mobile homes?
How can I improve energy efficiency in my mobile home?
Schedule Your Mobile Home AC Consultation Today
Don’t leave your comfort to guesswork. Whether you’re installing a new system or replacing an old unit, Galmiche & Sons is here to help you get the perfect mobile home AC solution.
Call us today or schedule an appointment online for expert air conditioner sizing and installation throughout the St. Louis area. Let our heating and air conditioning experts help you stay cool, save energy, and enjoy the comfort you deserve, no matter what kind of home you live in.
