Air Conditioners

Find the Best Air Conditioning Unit for Your Home

Finding the right air conditioner (AC) in Canada depends on a few simple factors. The size of your room, your insulation and even how much sunlight hits your windows can change how well an AC works. Whether you need to cool a small bedroom or an entire floor, picking the right unit is the secret to staying comfortable while saving money on your power bill.

Today’s AC units come with many features. You can find quiet models for sleeping, smart units you can control from your phone, and even vertical models for sliding windows.

Air conditioners come in a range of styles, from quiet air conditioners for bedrooms to smart air conditioners you can control from your phone.

Understanding BTUs and Room Size

A BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures how much heat an AC can remove from a room in one hour.

If the unit is too small, it will never get the room cold. If it is too big, it will cool the room too fast without removing the humidity. This can leave your room feeling cold but damp.

Use this guide to match BTUs to your space:

• 100–150 sq. ft. – 5,000 BTU (small bedrooms or offices)
• 300–350 sq. ft. – 8,000 BTU (larger bedrooms or small living rooms)
• 450–550 sq. ft. – 12,000 BTU (open-concept spaces or basements)
• 1,000+ sq. ft. – 21,000+ BTU (large main floors or multiple rooms)
  

Other things that affect cooling:

• Sunlight: Rooms with many windows or direct sun need more power.
• People: More people in a room means more body heat to cool down.
• High Ceilings: If your ceilings are high, there is more air to cool, so you may need a higher BTU rating.

Types of Air Conditioners

When shopping for a home AC, consider the following options:

• Window Units: Ideal for cooling single rooms; look for high CEER ratings for energy efficiency.
• Portable Air Conditioners: Easy to move between rooms; good for renters or temporary use.
• Mini-Split Air Conditioners (Ductless): A mini-split uses an outdoor compressor connected to quiet, wall-mounted units inside. Since they don’t need ductwork, they are ideal for older homes or new additions. They are highly energy-efficient and many models can also provide heat during the winter.
• Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners: These units are installed permanently into a hole cut through an exterior wall. They are perfect if you want to keep your windows clear for light and views. They require a metal "sleeve" to be built into the wall first to hold the unit securely. This requires professional installation.
• Central Air Conditioners: Cools your entire home at once by moving air through your existing furnace ducts. It is the most effective way to keep every room at a consistent temperature. While it has a higher upfront cost, it is a permanent solution that adds the most value to your home.

Canadian Energy Efficiency Ratings Explained

To lower energy bills look for these three ratings:

• EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measures cooling output (BTU) per energy used; higher is better.
• CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio): For window units, includes standby energy use.
• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): Applies to central systems, factoring in seasonal variations.

TIP: Don’t forget that using fans, ceiling fans, and air circulation products in addition to your home AC can also help your air conditioner perform better and keep your home consistently cool.

No matter the size of the space you’re looking to cool, you’re sure to find an air conditioner that fits your needs at The Home Depot Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to install a central air conditioner?

In Canada, air conditioner installation cost can range between around $5,000 and $8,000, with an average price of $5,500*, labour included (before applicable taxes). Check out our Air Conditioner Buying Guide for more details within your province.

What size air conditioner do I need for my bedroom?

Most bedrooms between 100-150 sq. ft. need a 5000 BTU air conditioner.

Can I use a 12,000 BTU air conditioner for an open-concept space?

Yes, a 12,000 BTU unit is suitable for areas around 450-550 sq. ft. It’s ideal for large living rooms or open-plan layouts.

Are smart air conditioners worth it?

Smart air conditioners let you control temperature remotely, create cooling schedules, and track energy usage, offering convenience and potential savings.

What’s the quietest type of air conditioner?

Quiet air conditioners often feature inverter technology and insulated compressors to reduce noise. Look for models specifically labeled as “quiet” or with low decibel (dB) ratings.

Do vertical air conditioners work in sliding windows?

Yes, vertical air conditioner models are made for vertical or sliding-style windows, offering a secure fit without needing major modifications.