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Air Conditioning Experts

AC Size Calculator

Find the right kW capacity for your room. Enter your details below for a personalised recommendation.

Step 1 of 6 17% complete

Room Dimensions

Enter the approximate dimensions of the room you want to cool and heat.

Room area: 20.0 m²

How to Calculate Air Conditioner Size

Choosing the right size air conditioner is one of the most important decisions when buying a new system. A unit that is too small will struggle to cool your room, while one that is too large will waste energy and create an uncomfortable environment.

The basic formula is straightforward: multiply your room's floor area (length x width in metres) by 125-150 watts to get the approximate cooling capacity needed in watts. Divide by 1,000 to convert to kilowatts (kW).

Factors That Affect Sizing

  • Room insulation: Well-insulated rooms need less cooling capacity. Poorly insulated rooms (e.g. old homes, no ceiling insulation) may need 20-30% more.
  • Windows: Large north or west-facing windows increase heat gain significantly. Add 10-20% for heavy sun exposure.
  • Climate zone: Darwin and Cairns need more cooling capacity than Melbourne or Hobart for the same room size.
  • Ceiling height: Standard 2.4m ceilings are accounted for in the base calculation. Add 10-15% for each additional 30cm of ceiling height.
  • Room usage: Kitchens generate more heat. Rooms with many occupants need extra capacity.

For a precise recommendation, use our calculator above or contact our team for expert advice.