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BTU to Ton Conversion Formula:
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The conversion from BTU (British Thermal Units) to tons is used in the air conditioning industry to measure cooling capacity. One ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTU per hour, which represents the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This simple conversion divides the BTU value by 12,000 to determine the equivalent cooling capacity in tons.
Details: Properly sizing an air conditioning system is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. An undersized unit will struggle to cool the space, while an oversized unit will short cycle, reducing efficiency and not properly dehumidifying the air.
Tips: Enter the BTU value of your air conditioning unit or the cooling capacity you require. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will instantly convert it to tons.
Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to 1 ton?
A: This measurement dates back to when cooling was provided by ice. One ton refers to the amount of heat needed to melt one ton (2000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours, which equals 12,000 BTU per hour.
Q2: How many BTUs do I need per square foot?
A: As a general rule, you need about 20 BTU per square foot of living space, but this can vary based on climate, insulation, ceiling height, and other factors.
Q3: What size AC unit do I need for a 2,000 sq ft house?
A: For a 2,000 sq ft home, you would typically need about 40,000 BTU or a 3.3-ton unit. However, a professional load calculation is recommended for accurate sizing.
Q4: Can I convert tons back to BTU?
A: Yes, simply multiply the tonnage by 12,000. For example, 2 tons would be 24,000 BTU.
Q5: Are there different ton measurements in HVAC?
A: No, in HVAC, a ton always refers to 12,000 BTU per hour of cooling capacity. This is standardized across the industry.