BTU Calculator

ASHRAE-compliant room load calculator · No sign-up required

Manual J StandardFree · No Sign-up

1 · Select Room Type

2 · Room Size

Square Footage
500sq ft
100 sq ft3,000 sq ft

3 · Environment Factors

Sun Exposure

Insulation Quality

Estimated BTU Required

11,000BTU/hr

0.9 tons of cooling capacity

Quick Summary

  • Room TypeBedroom
  • Area500 sq ft
  • Sun ExposureSunny ☀️
  • InsulationAverage

Recommended AC Capacity

12,000 BTU

1.0 Ton Unit

Mid-range window or portable unit territory. A 1-ton unit runs the full space without short-cycling.

See 12,000 BTU Units on Amazon

Editor's Picks

Top-Rated Cooling Units for US Homes

Matched to your calculated BTU range. Vetted for reliability, efficiency, and real-world performance based on verified buyer reviews.

8KBTU
Budget Pick

hOmeLabs 8,000 BTU Window AC

4.3(12,455)
  • Cools up to 350 sq ft efficiently
  • 3 fan speeds + built-in dehumidifier
  • 24-hour programmable timer

Typical Price

$179 – $219

See 8K BTU Units on Amazon
12KBTU
Best Overall

Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Window AC

4.6(8,432)
  • U-shape — window stays usable
  • CEER 15 energy-star certified
  • Alexa & Google Home compatible

Typical Price

$349 – $399

See 12K BTU Units on Amazon
18KBTU
Large Rooms

LG 18,000 BTU Dual Inverter Window AC

4.4(3,891)
  • Dual Inverter — 25% quieter operation
  • Up to 25% more efficient vs fixed-speed
  • SmartThinQ Wi-Fi app control

Typical Price

$549 – $629

See 18K BTU Units on Amazon

Prices shown are estimates. We may earn a commission from Amazon links at no extra cost to you.