The cooling capacity of an air conditioning unit, commonly referred to as its tonnage, is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. A 1-ton AC unit typically has a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTUs per hour. However, the area that a 1-ton AC can effectively cover depends on various factors, including the climate, insulation of the space, ceiling height, and the number of windows.
As a general rule of thumb, a 1-ton AC can cool an area of approximately 300 to 400 square feet (28 to 37 square meters) in a typical residential setting with average insulation and ceiling height. In regions with hotter climates, the coverage area might be slightly smaller, while in milder climates, it could be slightly larger.
If the space to be cooled has poor insulation, many windows, high ceilings, or is subject to excessive heat gain, the AC might struggle to cool the entire area effectively. In such cases, you might need a larger capacity AC or consider using multiple smaller units to distribute cooling more evenly.
It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and for accurate sizing and cooling capacity recommendations, it's best to consult with an HVAC professional. They can assess your specific needs and recommend the most suitable AC size for your space. Oversized or undersized AC units can lead to inefficiencies, higher energy consumption, and discomfort, so proper sizing is crucial.