When summer hits Walla Walla, your air conditioner quickly becomes one of the hardest-working systems in your home. But many homeowners don’t realize that even the best AC system will struggle to perform well if it’s not properly sized for your space. Whether it’s too big or too small, an improperly sized AC unit can lead to higher energy costs, reduced comfort, frequent repairs, and even premature system failure.
Don’t let an incorrectly sized AC ruin your summer comfort! Contact us today or call (509) 659-7565 to schedule a professional system assessment.
What Does “AC Sizing” Really Mean?
AC sizing refers to the cooling capacity an air conditioning unit can provide for a space, measured in tons or British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. One ton of cooling capacity can remove 12,000 BTUs of heat per hour. The size of the AC unit needed depends on various factors, including the size and layout of your home, insulation levels, window placement, and specific climate conditions.
Your AC's energy-efficiency rating tells you how much cooling power (in BTUs) it delivers for every watt of energy it uses. And contrary to common belief, bigger isn’t always better when it comes to cooling.
Why AC Size Matters More Than You Think
When your AC is the wrong size, it doesn’t just impact cooling performance. It affects your entire indoor environment and long-term system health. Here's why proper sizing is crucial:
- Comfort: An undersized system struggles to cool your home evenly, leaving hot spots and making some rooms feel uncomfortable. An oversized unit might cool the home too quickly without properly circulating and dehumidifying the air.
- Efficiency: A system that constantly runs or cycles on and off frequently wastes energy and drives up your utility bills.
- Humidity Control: In Walla Walla, summer heat often comes with sticky indoor air. An oversized unit doesn’t run long enough to pull moisture from the air, leading to poor humidity control and potential mold or mildew issues.
- System Lifespan: Overworking a small unit or frequently stopping and starting a large one can lead to mechanical wear and tear. This often results in more repairs and a shorter system lifespan.
- Air Quality: Proper circulation and filtration rely on correct sizing. A unit that doesn’t match your home can reduce indoor air quality, aggravating allergies or asthma.
A properly sized air conditioning system maintains your home's comfort and well-being. Taking a proactive approach ensures you stay ahead of the heat and enjoy consistent, reliable comfort.
5 Signs Your AC Might Be the Wrong Size
Not sure if your system is properly sized? Here are five signs that you should watch for:
Uneven Temperatures
If some rooms in your home are much warmer or cooler than others, your system might not be powerful enough—or too powerful to distribute air evenly.Short Cycling
Oversized units often reach the desired temperature too quickly, then shut off, only to turn on again shortly after. This constant start-stop cycle wastes energy and stresses the system.Constant Running
Conversely, if your system runs all day and still can’t keep your house cool, it’s likely undersized. This overwork can lead to higher energy bills and system failure over time.High Humidity Indoors
You might feel cool air, but still notice sticky, muggy air inside. That’s often because the system doesn’t run long enough to remove moisture from the air, especially in oversized units.Skyrocketing Energy Bills
If your AC seems to be running constantly or inefficiently cooling your space, it’s likely consuming more energy than it should. A professional sizing check could reveal the root of the problem.
If any of these signs sound familiar, our HVAC retrofit service can help alleviate your worries and give you peace of mind during Walla Walla's hottest days.
How HVAC Pros Determine the Right Size
Proper AC sizing isn’t based on guesswork or online calculators alone. At Total Comfort Solutions, our experienced technicians use industry standards to determine your home's correct system size. This detailed analysis includes:
- Square footage of the home
- Orientation of windows and walls (how much sun your home absorbs)
- Insulation levels in walls, attic, and crawlspaces
- Air leakage from doors, windows, and ductwork
- Occupancy (number of people regularly in the home)
- Heat-generating appliances and electronics
- Local climate data, including Walla Walla’s summer highs
By considering all these variables, we ensure your AC is not just a good fit—it’s the right fit.
Why Square Footage Alone Isn’t Enough
Some homeowners use a rough rule of thumb (like one ton of AC for every 500 square feet) when shopping for new systems. While that might offer a starting point, it leaves out critical considerations like home layout, window placement, and insulation. Relying on square footage alone often leads to oversizing, especially in older homes with varied energy profiles.
Instead, working with a professional HVAC technician ensures your system performs well year after year, saving you money and maximizing comfort.
Stay Cool the Smart Way with Total Comfort Solutions
If you’re thinking about upgrading your AC or unsure whether your current system is the right size, don’t wait until a heatwave makes things unbearable. Our local team at Total Comfort Solutions is here to help you make informed decisions with comfort, efficiency, and long-term value in mind.
Let’s make sure your AC system is the right fit for your Walla Walla home. Schedule a consultation through our online contact form or call (509) 659-7565 today!