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BTU to Tons Conversion Formula:
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The conversion from BTU per hour to tons of refrigeration is a standard calculation in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. One ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU per hour, which represents the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
The calculator uses the simple conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion is based on the standard definition that one ton of refrigeration capacity equals 12,000 BTU per hour.
Details: Accurate conversion between BTU and tons is essential for proper sizing of air conditioning systems, comparing cooling capacities, and ensuring equipment specifications meet the required cooling demands.
Tips: Enter the BTU per hour value in the input field. The calculator will automatically compute the equivalent tons of refrigeration. The default value is set to 14,000 BTU/h for quick calculation.
Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to 1 ton?
A: This conversion comes from the historical definition where one ton of refrigeration represents the cooling capacity needed to freeze one ton (2000 lbs) of water at 32°F into ice at 32°F in 24 hours.
Q2: What is a typical tonnage for residential AC units?
A: Residential air conditioners typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons, with the average home requiring 2-4 tons depending on square footage and climate.
Q3: How do I determine the right tonnage for my space?
A: Proper sizing requires considering square footage, insulation quality, window area, climate zone, and other factors. Professional HVAC calculation (Manual J) is recommended.
Q4: Can I convert tons back to BTU?
A: Yes, simply multiply the tons by 12,000 to get BTU per hour (BTU/h = Tons × 12,000).
Q5: Are there different ton definitions in refrigeration?
A: While 12,000 BTU/h is the standard definition, some historical contexts used slightly different values, but 12,000 BTU/h per ton is universally accepted in modern HVAC.