Recommended window air conditioner sizing chart
| Area to be cooled (Sq. ft.) | Recommended BTUs |
| 150 sq. ft. | 5,000 BTUs |
| 250 sq. ft. | 6,000 BTUs |
| 350 sq. ft. | 8,000 BTUs |
| 450 sq. ft. | 10,000 BTUs |
| 550 sq. ft. | 12,000 BTUs |
| 700 sq. ft | 15,000 BTUs |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | 18,000 BTUs* |
| 1,300 sq. ft. | 22,000 BTUs* |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | 24,000 BTUs* |
There are also other factors besides the square footage that need to taken into consideration when selecting the correct size air conditioner.
- How much direct sunlight does the AC or the room receive?
- How many windows does the room have?
- How many people are typically in the room?
- Does the room also contain large appliances such as refrigerators or in use stoves?
- Are the ceilings higher than the standard 8 to 10 foot tall?
If any of these addition factors apply you may want to consider going up to the next size window air conditioner based on the chart.
* Higher capacity air conditioners require 230 volts and do not use the standard 120 volt plugs found in homes.