When it comes to air conditioning, bigger isn’t always better—and smaller isn’t always more efficient. At Bay Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve spent decades helping homeowners across Westlake and Cuyahoga County find the right AC system for their homes. One of the most overlooked—but crucial—factors in that process is proper AC sizing.
Whether you’re replacing an old unit or installing a new system, understanding why AC sizing matters can help you avoid comfort issues, high energy bills, and costly repairs down the line.
What Does “AC Sizing” Mean?
AC sizing refers to the cooling capacity of your system, usually measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). This number determines how much heat the unit can remove from your home in one hour. An AC that’s too small will struggle to cool your space, while an oversized unit may cycle on and off too frequently—leading to energy waste and uneven temperatures.
Why Proper Sizing Is Essential
Here’s why we always stress the importance of getting the AC size just right:
1. Comfort You Can Count On
An undersized unit will run constantly and still fail to keep your home comfortable. On the flip side, an oversized unit cools too quickly without properly dehumidifying the air, which can leave you with that cold-but-clammy feeling. Proper sizing ensures consistent, balanced comfort in every room.
2. Energy Efficiency
An incorrectly sized AC is less efficient. It will either overwork itself or short-cycle—turning on and off more often than necessary. Both scenarios result in higher energy bills and a shorter system lifespan. A properly sized unit runs at optimal performance, helping you save money month after month.
3. Longer System Life
Frequent starts and stops (from an oversized unit) and nonstop running (from an undersized one) put unnecessary wear and tear on your system. When your AC is sized correctly, it operates more smoothly and lasts longer, reducing the likelihood of major repairs or early replacement.
What Goes Into Sizing an AC?
At Bay Heating & Air Conditioningg, we don’t guess—we calculate. Our experienced HVAC technicians take into account multiple factors when determining the correct size unit for your home, including:
Square footage
Insulation levels
Number of windows
Home layout
Local climate patterns (hello, humid Ohio summers!)
This comprehensive approach ensures your AC system is custom-fit to your home—not too big, not too small, but just right.
Get the Right Fit With Bay Heating & Air Conditioning
Your comfort is too important to leave to chance. Contact us today at (440) 294-4954 for expert AC sizing and installation that’s done right the first time!