1. What is the Air Conditioning Power Calculation?

Definition: This calculator estimates the required air conditioning power in kilowatts based on room area and the unit's Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER).

Purpose: It helps determine the appropriate AC unit size needed to effectively cool a given space while considering energy efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{kW} \) — Required cooling power (kilowatts)
• \( A_{room} \) — Room area (square meters)
• \( EER \) — Energy Efficiency Ratio (dimensionless)
• 44.6 — Conversion factor (W/m² to BTU/hr)
• 3412 — Conversion factor (BTU/hr to kW)

Explanation: The formula converts room area to cooling load in BTU/hr, then converts to kW while accounting for the unit's efficiency.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Correct AC sizing ensures energy efficiency, proper humidity control, and prevents short-cycling which can reduce equipment lifespan.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the room area in square meters and the AC unit's EER rating (default 3.5 for average units). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is EER?
A: Energy Efficiency Ratio is the cooling capacity (BTU/hr) divided by power input (watts). Higher EER means better efficiency.

Q2: What's a typical EER rating?
A: Standard units range 8-12 EER (2.3-3.5 in this formula's terms), while high-efficiency units can reach 14+ EER (4.1+).

Q3: Does this account for room insulation?
A: The 44.6 factor assumes average conditions. For poor insulation, increase area by 20-30%; for excellent insulation, decrease by 10-20%.

Q4: How does ceiling height affect this?
A: For ceilings > 2.7m, multiply area by (actual height/2.7) to adjust volume.

Q5: What about windows or heat sources?
A: Add 0.1-0.3 kW per large window or significant heat source (appliances, computers, etc.).