AC Tonnage Formula:
From: | To: |
AC tonnage calculation determines the cooling capacity needed for an air conditioning system based on the BTU (British Thermal Unit) measurement. One ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU per hour.
The calculator uses the AC tonnage formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts cooling capacity from BTU/h to tons, which is a standard measurement for air conditioning systems.
Details: Proper AC tonnage calculation is essential for selecting the right size air conditioning unit for a space. An undersized unit won't cool effectively, while an oversized unit will cycle on and off too frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
Tips: Enter the BTU value in BTU/h. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will automatically convert it to tons of refrigeration.
Q1: What is a ton of refrigeration?
A: One ton of refrigeration is the amount of heat required to melt one ton (2000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours, equivalent to 12,000 BTU per hour.
Q2: How do I determine the BTU requirement for my space?
A: BTU requirements depend on room size, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors. Generally, you need about 20 BTU per square foot of living space.
Q3: What happens if I choose the wrong AC tonnage?
A: Incorrect tonnage can lead to poor cooling performance, higher energy bills, reduced comfort, and shorter equipment lifespan.
Q4: Are there different types of tons in refrigeration?
A: Yes, there are different measurements (US ton, metric ton, British ton), but in HVAC, the standard is the US ton equal to 12,000 BTU/h.
Q5: Can I use this calculation for heat pumps as well?
A: Yes, the same calculation applies to heat pumps as they use similar cooling capacity measurements.