Hi! In full disclosure, we may earn money from companies (like Amazon) mentioned in this post if you make a purchase through our links. Thanks in advance for the support!
The cooling capacity of air conditioners is rated in “tons.” A one-ton of cooling capacity is equivalent to 12,000 BTUs of cooling per hour. Therefore, a 24,000 BTU air conditioner has a cooling capacity of two tons. Picking an air conditioner of the right size is very important. If your air conditioning unit is undersized, it’ll run continuously to maintain the desired comfort levels, increasing your energy costs. At the same time, if your air conditioner is oversized, it’ll run short cycles and be more prone to wear and tear issues.
In this post, we’ll take a detailed look at a 24,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner, including the room size for which it is appropriate and its energy efficiency.
What Size Room will a 24000 BTU Unit Cool?
The cooling capacity of air conditioners, specified in tons, is based on the amount of heat — measured in British Thermal Unit (BTU) — it can remove in an hour. One ton of cooling is equivalent to the removal of 12,000 BTUs in an hour. So, when someone says that an air conditioner is 24,000 BTU, it means that it is a two-ton unit and can remove 24,000 BTUs per hour.
As a rule of thumb, a one-ton air conditioner (12,000 BTUs) is adequate for 600 square feet of space. This means a 24,000 BTU air conditioning unit (or a 2-ton ac) can efficiently cool a room of 1,200 square feet.
Keep in mind that the above guideline is for normal conditions. There are many factors that can impact an air conditioning unit’s cooling capacity, the most important ones being the following:
- The level of heat and humidity outside
- Insulation inside your home
- The style and number of windows
If you live in a very hot city (like Las Vegas) or a very humid one (like San Francisco), a 2-ton AC may be able to efficiently cool only 1,000 or even 9,000 square feet. Likewise, if your home is poorly insulated or has old-styled windows or too many windows facing south, the cooling capacity of your air conditioner is likely to less than optimal.
How big is a 24000 BTU Window Unit?
A 24,000 BTU window air conditioning unit is of two-ton. You can expect a 24,000 BTU window unit to be about 18 inches wide and weigh around 130 pounds. However, the exact weight and dimensions vary by product. Check the product details of the selected air conditioner to learn its size and weight.
How Much electricity does a 24000 BTU Window Air conditioner Use?
A 24,000 BTU Window air conditioner generally consumes 228 kWh/month, according to the Department of Energy. Keep in mind that the actual power consumption of an AC depends on its SEER rating. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and a higher SEER rating means better energy efficiency. The minimum SEER rating for air conditioners is 13. Most air conditioners fall within a range of 13 to 21 SEER rating.
It’s important to note that some 24,000 BTU window air conditioners may require a special 230V outlet. These units will not operate if you use them with the standard 115V electrical outlet found in homes. You must always use an air conditioner with the correct electrical outlet; otherwise serious issues may occur.
What size breaker do I need for a 24000 BTU Air Conditioner?
It’s important to match the circuit breaker with the wire size. If they are not compatible with each other, you can have a potential fire hazard.
24,000 BTU air conditioners typically specify a wire size of 12 gauge minimum and a circuit breaker of up to 35 amps. Generally speaking, for a 12 gauge copper wire, the circuit breaker should not be more than 20 amps.
You can find out the ‘Max Breaker Size’ of your 24,000 BTU AC by checking the specification sheet. Generally, breaker amps are listed under the ‘Overcurrent Protective Devices’ section.
3 Great 24000 BTU Window Air Conditioner Options
AMANA 24,000 BTU 230V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
This window air conditioner is a cost-effective solution for cooling and dehumidifying a space that is 1,500 square feet or smaller. The unit comes with 3 cooling speeds, as well as a sleep mode and eco mode.
- 24, 000 btu air conditioner for window-mounted installation
- Product Dimensions: 26.40 D x 26.90 W x 18.70 H | Window opening maximum width (in.): 30 | Weight: 130.10 lbs
- Special 230V electrical outlet required (unit will not work with a standard 115V outlet)
- Cools a room up to 1, 500 sq. Ft. With up to 6.51 pints per hour dehumidification
- 3 cooling speeds plus auto option for cooling flexibility
- On-board electronic control panel with digital display
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
LG 24,500 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
This LG air conditioning unit is a powerful beast, capable of efficiently cooling and dehumidifying a room up to 1,560 square feet. It has Auto Restart and 3 cooling speeds.
- ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED - This air conditioner has met the high standards of the ENERGY STAR Program using energy-efficient technologies that translate into electricity savings.
- MULTIPLE FAN SPEEDS - 3 cooling and fan speeds with Auto Cool allow you to customize your cooling.
- MAXIMUM USABILITY - Easy to use electronic controls with remote
- AUTO RESTART - After a power failure, Auto Restart will automatically turn the unit back on when power is restored
- COOLS ROOMS UP TO 1,560 SQ. FT. - LW2516ER is ideal for cooling medium rooms (39 X
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Keystone 25,000 BTU Window Wall Air Conditioner
Quick to cool, this Keystone model is a budget-friendly solution for your cooling needs. It boasts several money-saving features, including sleep mode and energy saver mode.
- QUICK TO COOL: The 25,000 BTU air conditioner for window-mounted installation is what you need to efficiently cool your apartment, bedroom, living room, or any environment!
- FUNCTIONALITY: Cools a room up to 1,500 sq. ft. with dehumidification up to 5.7 pints per hour.
- TEMPERATURE SENSING “FOLLOW ME” REMOTE CONTROL: With a thermostat built into the remote control, say good-bye to uneven room temperatures. The remote makes it easier to control the unit from anywhere in the room and its integrated thermostat signals the AC to cool the space based on where you are.
- ENERGY STAR RATED COOLING: Energy Star efficiency saves you money on your electric bill (12.1 EER).
- Special 230-volt/20-amp electrical outlet required (Unit will not work with a standard 115V outle
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
24000 BTU Window Unit Vs Mini Split Options
Is a mini-split AC more energy efficient than a window unit? Which one of the two is easier to install? And what about the cost — which one is cheaper?
In this section, we’ll run you through the main differences between 24,000 BTU window units and mini-split options. (Read more on mini-split sizing here)
Cost
When it comes to the upfront cost, a window unit has a clear advantage. A 24,000 BTU window unit can be considerably cheaper than a mini split air conditioner. That said, because a mini split is far more energy efficient than a window unit. Therefore, over the long term, it pays you back by using less energy.
Installation
As far as installation is concerned, the window air conditioner is a clear-cut winner. Installing a mini split air conditioner can take up a day or two while the former can be installed fairly quickly. Installing a Window AC is quite simple, and something that you can do yourself, as long as you take necessary precautions, such as measuring the space beforehand and having someone nearby to ensure you don’t drop the air conditioner out of the window or hurt yourself. However, if you are not of DIY type or are not confident about your self-installation abilities, hire a professional.
Energy Efficiency
The Mini split air conditioner wins hands down on this criterion. 24,000 BTU mini split ACs can be up to 40% more energy efficient than window units. However, keep in mind that the more energy-efficient an air conditioner is, the higher the purchase price.
Noise
Window units tend to be noisy, especially if they are old or not properly installed. Mini split units, in contrast, don’t produce much noise. Additionally, window ACs may undermine your home’s security. With a mini split unit, you don’t have to worry about this.
Longevity
Min split units tend to have a longer lifespan than window air conditioners.
