AC Tonnage Calculator
Find the right cooling capacity with our AC Size Calculator using a CSA F280-style calculation.
Enter your square footage, insulation, and climate zone.
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A certified HVAC contractor performs a Manual J load calculation for exact sizing.
Get Free Quotes| Home Size | Recommended Capacity |
|---|---|
| Up to 800 sq ft | 1.5 tons (18,000 BTU/h) |
| 800 – 1,200 sq ft | 1.5 |
| 1,200 – 1,800 sq ft | 2 |
| 1,800 – 2,500 sq ft | 2 – 2.5 tons |
| 2,500 – 3,500 sq ft | 3 – 4 tons |
| 3,500+ sq ft | 4 – 5 tons |
⚠️ Important
Canada has significant climate variation, and Natural Resources Canada's energy efficiency programs account for these regional differences. Homes in Windsor, ON experience more intense summer heat than homes in Edmonton or Halifax. Our calculator uses your region to apply the appropriate climate zone factor.
A well-insulated, air-sealed home retains cool air far more efficiently than an older, drafty home. Good insulation may allow a smaller unit than square footage alone suggests see our air conditioning efficiency tips for more ways to reduce your cooling load.
Homes with 9, 10, or vaulted ceilings have larger air volumes to cool, increasing required capacity compared to standard 8-foot ceilings a key factor in our guide to things to consider before buying an air conditioner.
A standard central AC installation typically takes 4–8 hours buying an oversized unit is one of the 10 common mistakes when buying a new air conditioner. Ductless mini-split installations are often faster 3–5 hours for a single zone.
CSA F280 is Canada's official sizing standard built for Canadian climate zones, building codes, and metric units, unlike the American Manual J method. Canadian HVAC contractors use CSA F280 for accurate, code-compliant sizing.
Yes. Adding square footage, upgrading insulation, replacing windows, or finishing a basement all change your home's cooling load see how these factors influence AC installation costs.
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Canadian homeowners may qualify for up to $5,000 in federal and provincial rebates on qualifying systems.
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