Air conditioners buying guide
AC tonnage by room size in India
A practical starting chart for matching AC capacity to room size, heat load, floor, sunlight and Indian summer conditions.
Quick answer
Room area is only the starting point. A shaded bedroom can need less capacity than a top-floor west-facing room of the same size. Shortlist by room size, then adjust for heat, occupancy and ceiling height before comparing efficiency or price.
| Room situation | Starting capacity | Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| Up to about 100 sq ft | Around 1 Ton | Increase if top floor or strongly sun-exposed |
| About 100–150 sq ft | 1–1.5 Ton | Use the higher end for hot climates or daytime use |
| About 150–200 sq ft | Around 1.5 Ton | Consider more capacity for open layouts |
| About 200–250 sq ft | 1.5–2 Ton | A site assessment becomes increasingly useful |
Why square footage is not enough
Windows, external walls, roof exposure, cooking heat, connected spaces and the number of occupants all change the cooling load. Treat a room-size chart as a shortlist filter, not a substitute for an installation assessment.
Undersizing can make an AC run continuously without reaching comfort. Significant oversizing can raise upfront cost and may reduce dehumidification comfort because the compressor reaches the thermostat target too quickly.
Adjust for Indian climate and room position
For very hot inland locations, top floors, west-facing glass or poorly insulated rooms, move toward the higher end of the capacity range. Shaded rooms, lower floors and good curtains can stay near the lower end.
Also check the operating-temperature claim and the brand's installation requirements. Peak-temperature marketing should not replace correct sizing and a clean installation.
What to compare after tonnage
Once capacity is sensible, compare BEE label period, ISEER, annual energy consumption, compressor warranty, PCB coverage, noise, service reach and the installation items included by the seller.
Do not pay extra for smart features before confirming cooling fit, efficiency and after-sales support.
Before you buy
- ✓Measure usable room length, width and ceiling height
- ✓Note floor, sunlight direction and connected spaces
- ✓Count regular occupants and major heat-producing equipment
- ✓Confirm electrical load and installation location
- ✓Compare only models within the sensible capacity band
Sources and review standard
Energy-label explanations are checked against the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Standards & Labelling programme. Product-specific claims must be confirmed on the exact model’s manufacturer documentation and current retailer listing. See our methodology.