Do you feel hopeless in Delhi summers every year? Or have your air conditioning system broken down, and you do not want to invest right away? You can keep your hard-earned savings safe by choosing to rent an AC. However, do you know how to choose an AC based on room size? After all, there is a direct relationship between room size and AC capacity, as it impacts the efficiency of the air conditioning system. You need to gauge the air conditioner capacity in tons or BTUs (British Thermal Units) and see whether the specifications match the room dimensions. An undersized AC might not offer the cooling your room requires, and an oversized AC causes energy wastage and inconsistent temperatures. Needless to say, there are many factors that contribute to choosing the right AC cooling capacity in Delhi.
Why Should You Buy an AC by Room Size in Delhi?
When you are considering buying or renting an air conditioner in Delhi, you should understand how much heat the air conditioner can remove from the room. And you need to determine this by calculating every hour. If the AC is too small for your room, it will run longer to cool the room. This can cause higher electricity bills and a decreased lifespan of the air conditioner. When the AC is too large for the room, it cools the room quickly but does not eliminate humidity. It creates a dam environment in the room, leading to health issues.
Also Read: Why Should You Rent a 1.5-Ton Split AC: Everything to Know
How to Calculate AC Cooling Capacity based on Square Feet
The first step is to gauge the size of the room. You should measure the length and width of the room by multiplying these two factors. For instance, if you are looking for an AC for a 12×12 room, the footage would be 144 square feet.
To understand the air con cooling capacity by room size in Delhi, you can also apply a simple rule: multiply the area by 120 BTU per square foot. This will give you the minimum BTU of AC you need to install for the room. Below, we mention the AC cooling capacity by room size for better understanding:
| Room Size (Square Feet) | AC Cooling Capacity (BTU) | Tonnage |
| 80-120 | 9,600 – 14,400 | 0.8 – 1.2 |
| 140-160 | 16,800 – 19,200 | 1.4 – 1.6 |
| 180-200 | 21,600 – 24,000 | 1.8 – 2 |
| 240-260 | 28,800 – 31,200 | 2.4 – 2.6 |
| 300-350 | 36,000 – 42,000 | 3 – 3.5 |
| 400-450 | 48,000 – 54,000 | 4 – 4.5 |
| 550-700 | 66,000 – 84,000 | 5.5 – 7 |
| 700-1000 | 84,000 – 120,000 | 7 – 10 |
When calculating the AC cooling capacity by room size, you should consider the compressor technology. The air conditioner capacity for room size depends on whether you choose a fixed-speed compressor technology or a DC inverter compressor AC in Delhi. You also need to consider energy efficiency, functionality, and performance. Here, we mention two types of compressor technologies you should keep in mind.
Also Read: Why Should You Rent a 2-Ton Split AC for a Commercial Space?
Understanding AC Cooling Capacity for Fixed Speed Compressor
Known as non-inverters, fixed-speed ACs come with a single-speed compressor motor that either fully runs or stays off. This means that the compressor turns off when the room reaches a certain temperature. Also, it starts again when the predetermined threshold is set. To put it in simple words, a fixed-speed compressor is the best choice if you want the AC to work 100% all the time or completely off.
Also Read: AC or Air Cooler? Making the Right Cooling Choice for Summer 2025
Breaking Down Air Con Capacity for Inverter Compressor
For inverter compressor technology, the air con cooling capacity changes according to the room temperature conditions. Due to its variable frequency drive, it is called an inverter drive. As you can understand, the AC cooling capacity works just the opposite way a fixed-speed compressor does. The variable-speed motor technology within the compressor changes as a consequence of the room temperature.
When the air conditioner reaches a lower speed, the compressor motor runs rather than switching off. This happens when the AC reaches the desired room temperature and operates at a lower speed, keeping the compressor motor running. The inverter compressor maintains a persistent room temperature and comfort.
| Feature | Speed-Fixed Compressor AC | Inverter Compressor AC |
| Compressor Operation | The compressor cycles on and off at full speed. | The compressor speed adjusts based on cooling needs. |
| Energy Efficiency | Lower efficiency due to full-power operation. | Higher efficiency by adjusting power consumption. |
| Energy Consumption | Consumes full power while running. | Consumes only the required power. |
| Temperature Control | Temperature can fluctuate as the compressor cycles. | Provides precise and consistent temperature control. |
| Noise Level | Relatively louder due to abrupt start/stop cycles. | Quieter operation with gradual speed changes. |
| Cooling Speed | Slower cooling due to on/off cycles. | Faster cooling with continuous operation. |
| Upfront Cost | Lower initial cost. | Higher initial cost. |
| Lifespan | Relatively shorter lifespan due to frequent on/off cycles. | Longer lifespan with reduced wear and tear. |
| Maintenance | Simpler maintenance due to fewer complex parts. | More complex maintenance due to advanced components. |
| Suitability | Suitable for occasional use or budget-conscious buyers. | Ideal for frequent use, prioritising efficiency and comfort. |
Also Read: Why Rent An AC In Delhi-NCR: Reasons To Consider This Summer
Factors to Consider When Choosing AC Capacity by Room Size
Finding the right air conditioner capacity for your room can be challenging. Beyond calculating the room you want to cool, you should consider several factors. The AC cooling capacity and size of the room are related to the climate, usage hours, and number of people. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect air conditioner capacity for the room size.
1. Number of People in the Room
While gauging the AC cooling capacity for room size, you need to consider the room’s occupancy. A larger number of people indicates a higher heat dissipation from bodies and lights, increasing the cooling load. If there are 2-3 people in a room of 100-130 square feet, a 1-ton air conditioner is enough for ventilation and humidity. You can consider adding 0.5 tons for every 5 people.
2. Energy-Efficiency Ratings
Considering the AC unit’s cooling capacity involves checking the energy efficiency ratings. You can find 3-star and 5-star ratings in the market. A higher star rating ensures better cooling and lower electricity consumption. With a higher star rating, you can enjoy 20-30% power savings. Even though the upfront cost is high, the energy savings will help you save more over time.
3. Climate Conditions in Delhi
Delhi has an extreme climate condition, and this is one of the reasons for choosing the right AC cooling capacity. As the city experiences heat waves in the summer, a 1-ton AC on rent is a good choice for rooms up to 120 square feet. You should consider different factors, such as sunlight exposure, occupancy, and high ceilings. It is also important to note that the temperatures often exceed 45°C, making it difficult to keep the temperature below 25°C. That’s why you should rent an inverter AC and set the temperature to 24°C to manage energy consumption.
You should factor in the highest expected usage, ambient temperature, and heat load while measuring the AC cooling capacity. For peak summer in Delhi, you can consider a small margin of 0.5 tons of extra AC cooling capacity.
4. Check the Ceiling Height
The height of your room can impact the air conditioning of the room. If the room has a high ceiling, it will require a stronger AC cooling capacity than a small cube-shaped room. The standard ceiling height is usually 8-10 feet, and you can rent a 1-ton AC in Delhi. On the other hand, if the height is between 12 and 15 feet, you can consider a 0.5 higher capacity for AC. Let’s say a room with a ceiling height of 11 feet needs a 1.5-ton AC. In case the room has 12 feet ceiling, it’s recommended to choose a 2-ton air conditioner in Delhi.
Also Read: A Complete Guide To AC Maintenance: Things To Keep In Mind
As you can see, choosing the suitable AC unit cooling capacity according to your room size can be a challenge when you are unaware of these factors. If you are running low on your budget, you can rent an AC in Delhi. You can visit RentoMojo, as our monthly rentals start at ₹1,799 per month. So, visit us and get a 1-ton or 2-ton air con on rent according to the room requirements!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cooling capacity of a 1.5-ton AC?
A 1.5-ton AC has a cooling capacity of 18,000 BTU/hour, making it suitable for cooling medium-sized rooms between 150 and 200 square feet, depending on factors like ceiling height and heat load. This capacity is ideal for spaces with higher heat loads, such as those with large windows or multiple occupants, and it can efficiently cool rooms up to 170 square feet in typical conditions.
2. What should be the cooling capacity of AC in Delhi?
The cooling capacity of an AC should be determined based on factors such as room size, insulation, window exposure, and occupancy. For a typical room in Delhi, a 1-ton AC (approximately 12,000 BTU) is often recommended for rooms up to 120 square feet, but adjustments may be needed based on specific conditions like high ceilings or direct sunlight exposure.
3. Can a 1-ton AC cool two rooms?
A 1-ton AC is generally not suitable for cooling two rooms simultaneously, as its capacity is designed to effectively cool a single room up to 150 square feet. However, with proper installation and positioning, it might be possible to cool two small adjacent rooms if they are well-insulated and have minimal heat sources, but this would likely compromise cooling efficiency and comfort in both rooms.
4. How many square feet will a 1.5-ton cool?
A 1.5-ton AC is generally suitable for cooling rooms between 130 and 180 square feet, depending on factors such as ceiling height, insulation, and sunlight exposure. However, some sources suggest that it can effectively cool rooms up to 200 square feet under optimal conditions.
5. Which AC is suitable for a 10*10 room?
A 1-ton AC is generally suitable for a 10*10 room (100 square feet), but if the room receives direct sunlight or is located on the top floor, a 1.2-ton AC might be more effective for optimal cooling.
