1. What is AC Tonnage Calculation?

AC tonnage calculation converts BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour to tons, which is the standard unit for measuring air conditioning capacity. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AC tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Air conditioning capacity in tons
• \( BTU/hr \) — British Thermal Units per hour
• \( 12,000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr)

Explanation: This formula converts the cooling capacity from BTU per hour to the standard tonnage measurement used in the HVAC industry.

3. Importance of AC Tonnage Calculation

Details: Proper AC tonnage calculation is crucial for selecting the right-sized air conditioning unit for a space. Oversized or undersized units can lead to inefficiency, poor performance, and increased energy costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU per hour value from your air conditioner specifications. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will instantly convert it to tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to 1 ton?
A: This measurement originated from the cooling effect of one ton of ice melting over 24 hours, which equals 12,000 BTU per hour.

Q2: What is the typical tonnage for residential AC units?
A: Residential units typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons, depending on the square footage and insulation of the space.

Q3: How do I determine the right tonnage for my space?
A: A general rule is 1 ton per 400-600 square feet, but factors like ceiling height, insulation, windows, and climate also affect the calculation.

Q4: What happens if I choose the wrong tonnage?
A: An oversized unit will short cycle, reducing efficiency and humidity control. An undersized unit will run constantly and struggle to cool the space.

Q5: Can I use this for heat pumps as well?
A: Yes, this conversion applies to both air conditioners and heat pumps, as both are rated in BTU for cooling capacity.