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What Size AC for a Kitchen?

A typical kitchen (~120 sq ft) needs about 7,904 BTU/hr — a 1.5 ton unit in moderate US conditions, or 1.5 ton in hot Indian conditions (16,040 BTU/hr).
Tuned for this space — adjust to match yours

Defaults reflect this space type. Same engine as the main calculator.

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Cooling load

The 4,000 BTU appliance tax

Cooking appliances dump roughly 4,000 BTU/hr of ambient heat into the room while in use — a gas hob, more. That single factor often doubles a small kitchen's load versus an identical bedroom, which is why kitchen ACs feel undersized when sized by area alone.

Placement and exhaust matter as much as tonnage

Never aim the indoor unit's airflow across the hob — it disturbs flames and spreads grease aerosols onto the coil, killing the unit early. Mount it away from the cooking zone, run the exhaust hood while cooking (it removes heat at the source, cheaper than condensing it), and clean filters monthly, not seasonally.

FAQ

What size AC do I need for a kitchen?

A typical kitchen (~120 sq ft) needs about 7,904 BTU/hr — a 1.5 ton unit in moderate US conditions, or 1.5 ton in hot Indian conditions (16,040 BTU/hr).

What size AC for a kitchen in India?

A typical Indian kitchen of ~120 sq ft carries roughly 16,040 BTU/hr in hot conditions — a 1.5 ton. Adjust with the calculator above for your exact room and city.

Why does my kitchen AC get greasy and weak?

Airborne cooking grease coats the indoor coil and filters, choking airflow. Mount the unit away from the hob's airflow path, always run the exhaust hood while cooking, and clean filters monthly.

AC sizing for other spaces

Garage Garage Gym Bedroom Living Room Sunroom Attic Room / Loft Conversion Basement Home Office Server Room / IT Closet Retail Shop Restaurant Dining Area Salon / Parlour Gym / Fitness Studio Classroom / Coaching Centre Mobile / Manufactured Home Conservatory Study / Small Room

Go deeper: Main tonnage calculator · all guides.