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How Do I Determine the Unit Size I Need for My Space?Updated 3 hours ago

Sizing an HVAC System

There are many factors when it comes to sizing a mini split. The most important being the number of rooms (zones) as well as the size and ceiling height of each zone. Some other factors include number of windows, insulation amount, the amount of heat-generating appliances and expected amount of occupants.

Size of the room is the biggest factor in the size of the system needed. Generally we recommend: 

  • 20 BTU per square foot for cooling-only applications
  • 25 BTU per square foot for heating and cooling, and 
  • 30 BTU per square foot if expecting to use the unit as a main heating source in a cold-climate (such as the northern USA and Canada).

This assumes a standard 8 foot ceiling, but you can upsize for taller ceiling heights.

The most basic application is a single bedroom. This would be one zone, and as such you can go with a 9,000 BTU system for rooms measuring between 100 and 350 square feet.

For applications where there are multiple rooms/zones and ductwork is not an option, consider a multi-zone system. You can have up to 5 air handlers indoor connected to one outdoor, making a more efficient use of space.

For homes or offices with ducting in place, we also offer ductable mini splits as well as standard central split ducted systems.

A great place to start with sizing for your project is to take advantage of our HVAC Calculator linked here: HVAC Calculator

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