1. What is A/C Tonnage Sizing?

A/C tonnage sizing refers to the process of determining the appropriate capacity of an air conditioning unit for a specific space. One ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTU per hour, which is the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( BTU \) — British Thermal Units, a measure of cooling capacity
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hour)

Explanation: This calculation converts BTU requirements to standard A/C tonnage measurements used in the HVAC industry.

3. Importance of Proper A/C Sizing

Details: Proper A/C sizing is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. Oversized units short cycle, reducing efficiency and humidity control. Undersized units struggle to maintain temperature.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total BTU requirement for your space. This value is typically calculated based on room size, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors. Professional Manual J calculations are recommended for accurate sizing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many square feet does 1 ton cool?
A: Generally, 1 ton cools 400-600 square feet, but this varies based on climate, insulation, ceiling height, and other factors.

Q2: What happens if my A/C is oversized?
A: Oversized units cool too quickly, leading to short cycling, poor humidity control, reduced efficiency, and uneven temperatures.

Q3: Can I use this calculator for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the same tonnage calculation applies to heat pumps in cooling mode.

Q4: Should I consider anything else besides tonnage?
A: Yes, also consider SEER rating (efficiency), ductwork design, insulation quality, and proper installation.

Q5: Is professional sizing necessary?
A: For whole-house systems, professional Manual J calculation is highly recommended as it considers all factors affecting cooling load.