In this guide to window air conditioner dimensions you’ll see how to measure windows for an AC unit and what sizes to get for specific rooms in the home.
One thing that will save the whole family from high temperatures inside their homes is installing air conditioning, and one of the most affordable options is window AC units. Window air conditioning units are available at price points that are not too high for buyers, and they are efficient in cooling down a room.
One of the essential things to consider before buying an air conditioning unit is the window’s dimensions. Knowing the correct size will ensure that the unit will fit the window frame in height and width, avoiding any troubles with replacement.
Standard Window Air Conditioner Dimensions
There are three pivotal dimensions to consider when choosing an air conditioning unit for any home: the window’s minimum and maximum length and the minimum height.
The first measurement is the minimum length, which will need at least 23 inches or 58 centimeters for a 1-ton window AC unit. The maximum length can go up to 36 inches or 91 centimeters for a 1-ton AC unit.
The third point to consider is the minimum height in inches and centimeters. The window should be high enough to accommodate the air conditioning unit.
For a 1-ton AC unit, for example, the minimum height should be 15.5 inches or 39 centimeters. 1.5-ton units will require different window dimensions, but the 1-ton is the standard.
Air Conditioner By Window Size
Many AC units will fit any window sill as long as measuring is done correctly. Generally, an AC unit will have minimum and maximum width and height for window casing across any brand, depending on the unit weight.
For 1-ton units, minimum window lengths will range from 23 to 24 inches or 58 to 61 centimeters, and maximum lengths will vary from 36 to 38 inches or 91 to 97 centimeters. The minimum height will usually range from 14 to 16 inches or 36 to 41 centimeters.
5000 BTU Air Conditioner Dimensions
A 5000 BTU window air conditioning unit is mainly designed for double hung windows, which are 21 inches to 36 inches or 53 centimeters to 91 centimeters in width with a height of 13 3/8 inches or 34 centimeters.
Specific AC units with 5000 BTU will have a width of 16.42 inches or 42 centimeters, a depth of 14 inches or 36 centimeters, and a height from top to bottom of 12.56 inches or 32 centimeters. These air conditioning units usually weigh 41.5 pounds and are 110 volts.
Casement Window Air Conditioner Dimensions
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Many homeowners who have casement windows installed in their homes struggle to find air conditioning products that fit their windows, but luckily, casement window air conditioning units are available for their use.
Usually, a casement window will require a width of 15 1/2 inches or 39 centimeters since these units will be more extended than they are more expansive.
Smallest Window Air Conditioner Dimensions
Many sizes are available for these cooling systems, from small to large, but small-sized window-fitted units are the best and most cost-efficient for smaller floor plans.
A 10 by 10 or 100 square feet room will require an AC unit with 2000 BTU.
Since an AC size this small is not always available, it is best to choose between a small 5000 BTU cooling unit that is cost-efficient and fixed on the window. These units are generally 16 by 12 inches or 41 to 30 centimeters.
How To Measure A Window For An Air Conditioner?
Measuring windows for AC units is pretty straightforward as long as one knows what they are doing.
The foremost thing to do is determine the placement and which frame will hold the AC unit. The windows you choose must be under shade for best results. Choose an area where the system will not be in anyone’s way to prevent accidents from happening.
Once the location is chosen, open the window and use a tape measure to calculate side to side and top to bottom.
Write out the dimensions and estimate for the second time to ensure accuracy. Window type is also the key, so assess the style of the window, whether it is a casement or a double-hung window.
The second thing to do is to calculate the AC size, which can be done by measuring the square footage of a specific room by multiplying the width by the room’s length.
Take a 10 by 12 feet room, for example, which equals 120 square feet.
Once the square footage and window dimensions are secured, it will be easy to choose from the many choices available.
Measuring Windows for Window-mounted Cooling Systems Checklist
| Step | Task | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Measure Width | – Measure the inside width at the top, middle, and bottom. – Use the smallest measurement. |
| 2 | Measure Height | – Measure inside height at left, center, and right for lower sash. – Use the smallest measurement. |
| 3 | Check Depth | – Measure sill depth from inside to outside edge. |
| 4 | Note Any Obstructions | – Look for handles, screens, or frames that might interfere with placement. |
| 5 | Record Measurements | – Write down the smallest width and height. |
| 6 | Outlet Proximity | – Locate the electrical outlet for direct plug-in. |
| 7 | Special Requirements | – Read AC unit’s installation manual for window specifications. |
This chart provides a quick reference for the key steps when measuring product specifications.
What Size Window AC To Get?
The size of the window air conditioning unit any homeowner needs will depend on the size of the room they will use it in. If the size is incorrect, the room will get too hot, and it will defeat the purpose of the air conditioning unit.
Window AC Size Chart
In a space that is 100 to 150 square feet, an AC with 5000 BTU is the right size. For 150 to 250 square feet of room, an AC with 6000 BTU will cool the place up.
A space that is 250 to 350 square feet needs an AC unit with 7000 BTU. 400 to 450 square feet of space will need an AC with 10000 BTU, while a room 450 to 550 square feet needs an AC with 12000 BTU. 550 to 700 square feet rooms require a 14000 BTU AC unit.
AC will cool bigger rooms at 700 to 1000 square feet with 18000 BTU, while 1000 to 1200 square feet halls will require an air conditioning unit with 21000 BTU. Buying a suitable unit for your room size with make it much easier to cool the space.
See more related content in our article about the types of home cooling system here.