How To Tell If Your AC Unit Is The Right Size

Is Your AC Unit the Right Size for Your Greenville Home? Here’s How to Tell

We get this question all the time from homeowners across Greenville: “How do I know if my air conditioner is the right size for my house?”

It’s a great question because getting the size wrong can lead to serious problems, like high energy bills, hot rooms, or even a system that wears out too fast. The pros at Air Repair AL will walk you through what “right size” really means, how to figure out what your home needs, and what signs to look for if your current unit just isn’t cutting it.

Not sure if your AC unit is the right size?

Let’s find out. Our Greenville techs can do a proper load calculation and help you cool smarter, not harder. Call 864-777-1111 today and we’ll help you figure it out correctly or contact us online with any questions!

Why Does AC Unit Size Matter So Much?

Think of it like this: You wouldn’t wear a winter coat to run a mile in August, and you wouldn’t wear shorts to shovel snow. Your AC unit works the same way.

• If it’s too big, it cools the space too fast without properly removing humidity. That can leave your home feeling cool but clammy.
• If it’s too small, it runs constantly, struggles to cool the house, and wears out quicker.

Neither option is good.

How Do I Know What Size AC My House Needs?

AC size is measured in tons, but not the kind you see on a scale. In HVAC, one “ton” equals the cooling power needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours. Most homes fall between 1.5 and 5 tons, depending on square footage, insulation, and layout of your home.

Here’s a very rough guide to give you a ballpark idea:

Pro Tip in Greenville: Humidity plays a big role here, so we factor that into any system sizing. You can’t just go by square footage alone.

What Affects the Right Size for My AC?

Several things go into calculating the ideal size:

• Square footage of your home

• Insulation quality (walls, attic, etc.)

• Window type and sun exposure

• Number of people living in the home

• Ceiling height

• Duct condition and layout

• Local climate (and Greenville summers are hot and humid!)

That’s why HVAC pros use something called a Manual J Load Calculation. It’s a standardized method that takes all these factors into account, not just square footage.

Signs Your Current AC Unit Might Be the Wrong Size

Here’s what to watch for:

Too Small?

• AC runs constantly and still doesn’t cool well

• Certain rooms never seem to get cold

• System breaks down often from overuse

• High electric bills

Too Big?

• AC turns on and off constantly (short cycling)

• Humidity stays high indoors

• Rooms feel cold but sticky

• Uneven temperature from room to room

What If I Think I Need a Different Size?

If your AC system is struggling or your home always feels uncomfortable, it might be time to look at your system’s size.

Here’s what we recommend:

1. Have an HVAC pro do a Manual J calculation. It’s the best way to get an accurate answer.

2. Don’t rely on your neighbor’s system size. Just because their 2,000 sq. ft. home uses a 3-ton unit doesn’t mean that’s right for your home.

3. Ask for humidity control options. In Greenville, it’s just as important as temperature control.

Is It Worth Upgrading My Unit?

In many cases, yes. If your unit is over 10–15 years old, improperly sized, or just can’t keep up with the heat, upgrading to a right-sized, energy-efficient system can:

• Lower your energy bills

• Improve comfort in every room

• Help control indoor humidity

• Extend the life of your HVAC system

Plus, newer systems are way better at handling Greenville’s humid summers—and many qualify for rebates or energy incentives.

Sizing Your AC Isn’t Guesswork

We get the question all the time: what size AC do I need for my “X square footage” home. Don’t just use square footage to make the determination. To do it properly takes much more data.

Getting it right is key to comfort and efficiency in a place like Greenville.

If you’re not sure whether your system is the right fit, or you’re building or remodeling a home and want to get it right the first time, call 864-777-1111 or contact us online with any questions. We’ll do the math, check your home, and help you make the best decision for your comfort and your budget.