Classic tool

BTU Calculator for Air Conditioners

Estimate the BTU/h your room needs from size, ceiling height, occupancy, sunlight and kitchen use.

Use this BTU calculator to estimate the air conditioner capacity that fits a bedroom, living room, small office, studio or open kitchen more closely. Instead of guessing the unit size, you can enter room dimensions, ceiling height, occupancy and sunlight exposure to get a faster planning number.

The calculation starts from a room-size cooling chart and then applies practical adjustments for sunny spaces, extra occupants, kitchen use and ceilings above the standard 8-foot baseline. The result shows estimated BTU per hour, the closest standard equipment size and an approximate tonnage reference to help you compare window, portable, split and mini-split options.

This is a quick sizing estimate, not a full HVAC load calculation. If your room has large glass areas, heavy equipment, unusual insulation issues or demanding commercial heat loads, confirm the final spec with a qualified professional before buying.

This estimate is a starting point. Sunny rooms, kitchens and tall ceilings usually need more cooling capacity.

SummaryEnter room measurements to estimate cooling capacity in BTU/h.
Estimated BTU/h
Suggested standard size
Area and ceiling
Applied adjustments
Calculation view
NoteQuick estimate based on a room-size chart with an 8-foot ceiling baseline plus adjustments for sun, extra occupants and kitchen use. It does not replace a full Manual J or professional load study.

Use clear inputs to get a more useful result.