1. What is BTU to Tons Conversion?

The conversion from BTU (British Thermal Units) to tons of refrigeration is used to determine air conditioning capacity. One ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU per hour, which represents the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• \( BTU \) — British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h)
• \( Ton \) — Tons of refrigeration

Explanation: This simple conversion divides the BTU value by 12,000 to determine the equivalent cooling capacity in tons.

3. Importance of AC Capacity Calculation

Details: Properly sizing air conditioning units is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. Undersized units struggle to cool spaces, while oversized units short cycle, reducing efficiency and failing to properly dehumidify.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU value (must be greater than 0). The calculator will instantly convert it to tons of refrigeration.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to 1 ton?
A: This measurement dates back to when cooling was provided by melting ice. One ton of ice melting over 24 hours absorbs 12,000 BTU of heat.

Q2: What's the typical tonnage for residential AC units?
A: Residential units typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons, with 1 ton generally cooling 400-600 square feet depending on climate and insulation.

Q3: How do I calculate the BTU needed for a room?
A: A rough estimate is 20 BTU per square foot, but this varies based on ceiling height, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors.

Q4: Are there different types of tons in refrigeration?
A: Yes, there are different measurements (US ton, metric ton, UK ton), but in HVAC, the standard is the US ton equal to 12,000 BTU/h.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies to heat pump cooling capacity measurements.