1. What is BTU/h?

BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour) is a measurement of heat energy transfer rate. For air conditioners, it indicates how much heat the unit can remove from a space per hour.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BTU estimation formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Room area in square feet
• \( 20 \) — Standard multiplier for moderate climates (BTU per sq ft)

Explanation: This basic calculation assumes standard ceiling height (8 ft) and moderate climate conditions.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Correct BTU calculation ensures your air conditioner is properly sized - neither too small (won't cool effectively) nor too large (short cycling, higher humidity).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your room's length and width to calculate square footage. For irregular rooms, divide into rectangular sections and add them together.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When should I use a higher multiplier than 20?
A: Use 25-30 for sunny rooms, 35-40 for kitchens, and 50 for very sunny large spaces or rooms with high heat-generating equipment.

Q2: What if my ceilings are higher than 8 feet?
A: Increase BTU by about 10% for each additional foot of ceiling height beyond 8 feet.

Q3: Does this work for central AC systems?
A: This provides a room estimate. Whole-house systems require professional Manual J calculation that considers insulation, windows, etc.

Q4: What about very hot climates?
A: In extreme heat (consistently above 95°F), consider increasing the multiplier to 25-30.

Q5: How accurate is this simple calculation?
A: It provides a good starting point but doesn't account for insulation, windows, or other factors. For precise sizing, consult an HVAC professional.