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Whole Home Sizing Guide

Find the right central heating and cooling system for your home's square footage.

Whole Home Size Chart

Home Size (Sq Ft) Recommended System Size Nominal Capacity
1,000 – 1,200 2 Ton 24,000 BTU
1,200 – 1,400 2.5 Ton 30,000 BTU
1,400 – 1,700 3 Ton 36,000 BTU
1,700 – 2,200 4 Ton 48,000 BTU
2,200 – 2,800 5 Ton 60,000 BTU

Chart is a general guide. See below for factors that affect sizing.

Recommended Systems by Home Size

1,000 – 1,200 sq ftRecommended: Universal 2 Ton (24K)
View 2 Ton Systems →
1,200 – 1,400 sq ftRecommended: Universal 2.5 Ton (30K)
View 2.5 Ton Systems →
1,400 – 1,700 sq ftRecommended: Universal 3 Ton (36K)
View 3 Ton Systems →
1,700 – 2,200 sq ftRecommended: Universal 4 Ton (48K)
View 4 Ton Systems →
2,200 – 2,800 sq ftRecommended: Universal 5 Ton (60K)
View 5 Ton Systems →

Do I Need a Central System?

Choose a whole-home (central) system if:

  • Your home already has ductwork
  • You want one system for the entire home
  • You're replacing an existing HVAC system
  • You prefer central heating and cooling
Do I Need a Central System?

Don't have ductwork? Consider a ductless mini-split system. Visit our Sizing Help section for mini-split sizing.

What Affects Sizing?

These factors can impact the size system you need.

Climate

Warmer climates may require more cooling capacity.

Insulation

Better insulation improves efficiency and comfort.

Ceiling Height

Higher ceilings require more conditioning.

Sun Exposure

More sun exposure increases cooling demand.

Window Area

Larger windows may increase heat gain.

Open Floor Plan

Open layouts can affect airflow and sizing.

Avoid These Sizing Mistakes

Too Small

The system will struggle during extreme weather and may run constantly, leading to higher energy bills and wear.

Too Large

The system cycles on and off too frequently, causing poor humidity control, uneven temperatures, and higher costs.

Ignoring Insulation

Poor insulation makes your home less efficient and may require a larger system than necessary.

Incorrect Room Count

More rooms, especially closed-off ones, can affect airflow and increase capacity requirements.

Guessing

Relying on guesswork instead of proper sizing can lead to comfort issues and wasted money.

Universal Series Explained

MRCOOL Universal® central systems are designed for whole-home comfort using your existing ductwork. Perfect for replacing older HVAC systems.

Best for:

  • Existing ductwork
  • Whole-home comfort
  • Heating and cooling
  • Replacing old HVAC systems
Universal Series Explained

Available Sizes:

2 Ton (24K)2.5 Ton (30K)3 Ton (36K)4 Ton (48K)5 Ton (60K)

Shop by Home Size

Not sure exactly what size you need? Start here.

My home is around 1,200 sq ft
View Systems →
My home is around 1,500 sq ft
View Systems →
My home is around 2,000 sq ft
View Systems →
My home is around 2,500 sq ft
View Systems →

Still Not Sure What Size Is Right for You?

Answer a few quick questions and we'll recommend the perfect solution for your space and needs.

Help Me Choose