HVAC Load Calculator
Simplified Manual J — find the right AC size and BTU for your home.
Recommended AC Size
6
tons
Cooling Load
71,000 BTU
Heating Load (est.)
88,750 BTU
Calculated Tonnage
5.92 tons
BTU / sq ft
35.5
⚠️ Don't Oversize
An oversized AC short cycles, fails to dehumidify, and wears out faster. If in doubt, get a professional Manual J calculation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What size AC do I need for a 2000 sq ft home?
A 2,000 sq ft home typically needs a 3–4 ton AC unit (36,000–48,000 BTU), but the exact size depends on ceiling height, insulation quality, climate zone, and window area.
How many BTU per square foot do I need?
A general rule is 20–25 BTU per square foot, but this varies significantly by climate. Hot, humid climates like Florida may require 30+ BTU/sq ft.
What is HVAC tonnage?
One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour. Residential systems typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons. Never oversize — it causes humidity problems and short cycling.