I'm trying to figure out what I need for a mini split AC/heater to properly cool my living room, which is about 300 square feet. While browsing options on Home Depot's website, I keep coming across different BTU and SEER ratings, but some models don't specify the recommended room size. Can someone break down what these specs mean, and what I should focus on for my situation? Also, I live in Texas where the temperatures often exceed 100 degrees, and my central AC isn't doing a great job cooling the house. I have insulation in the attic but not in the walls, and during peak heat, the temperature inside can rise to the 80s even with the AC running.
2 Answers
Don’t get too hung up on just the SEER and BTU ratings! Look for units that have good reviews about performance in high heat areas. Plenty of people in Texas can provide insights on what works best. Also, it might be worthwhile to check if you can insulate your walls as that could massively improve efficiency!
A mini split's BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating tells you how much heat it can remove from a room in an hour. For a space of around 300 sqft, you’ll generally want something in the ballpark of 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs to efficiently cool it. About the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) – this measures the cooling output divided by the energy it consumes over a season. A higher SEER means better efficiency, which is great for long-term savings, especially in hot climates like Texas. Aim for at least a SEER of 16 if you want something efficient. Don’t forget to consider factors like insulation when making your choice!
Exactly! Make sure you also factor in your local climate and your home’s insulation quality when making your decision. If you have poor insulation, you might need a higher BTU rating to balance it out.
Great point! I definitely need to think about wall insulation as a long-term solution. Thanks for the tip!