When considering the best way to air condition a 12,000 square foot building with 29-foot high ceilings and 6-inch insulated walls, several options and factors come into play.

1. System Size Determination: The first step in selecting an air conditioning system is to determine the required BTU (British Thermal Units) capacity. For a building of this size, a general estimate suggests that you might need a significant cooling capacity—potentially around 24,000 BTUs, as mentioned for large spaces. However, individual calculations should take into account additional factors such as ceiling height and insulation quality. For instance, there are various BTU calculators available online which can help estimate your needs more precisely by factoring in square footage, ceiling height, and other variables (PC Richard).

2. Types of Systems: Options for air conditioning include central air conditioning units, ductless mini-split systems, or even traditional wall-mounted units. Ductless mini-split systems are often highlighted for their energy efficiency and performance in large spaces, although careful consideration must be given to the capacity needed since the smallest units start at around 9,000 BTUs, which may not suffice for larger areas (Reddit discussion, Amazon ductless system).

3. Installation and Design Considerations: The height of the ceilings at 29 feet also necessitates a careful approach to ensure efficient air distribution. Traditional A-frame air conditioners that mount above the ground can help conserve floor space and may be beneficial in high-ceiling environments (Garage Journal discussion).

4. Impact of Insulation: The 6-inch insulated walls significantly contribute to reducing load and improving the energy efficiency of the air conditioning system. Insulation plays a critical role in maintaining temperature and should not be overlooked in the decision-making process (Hitachi Cooling & Heating).

Overall, the best strategy involves calculating BTU needs based on specific features of the building, selecting a suitable system type, considering high-efficiency options that facilitate effective cooling, and factoring in insulation attributes to optimize performance. Consulting with HVAC professionals for tailored advice would also be highly beneficial.

Sources

Best HVAC option for 120 sq ft shed : r/shedditors - RedditBTU Calculator: What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need? - PC RichardDoes sizing a central air conditioner by square footage alone work ...Classic America 12000 BTU Ductless Wall Mount Mini Split Inverter ...Wall Air Conditioners - The Home DepotShop air conditioning ???? | The Garage JournalWhat Size of Air Conditioner do I Need? | Hitachi Cooling & Heating

Related Questions

Which AC system is most suitable for large buildings?

What is the least expensive cooling system for large building?

How big of an area will a 12000 BTU air conditioner cool?

What is the $5000 rule for HVAC?