1. What is the Duct AC Tonnage Calculator?

The Duct AC Tonnage Calculator estimates the cooling capacity in tons for ducted air conditioning systems based on BTU input. It provides a quick conversion from BTU/h to tons for proper AC system sizing.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( BTU \) — British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h)
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12000 BTU/h)

Explanation: The equation converts cooling capacity from BTU/h to tons, where 1 ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour.

3. Importance of Tonnage Calculation

Details: Proper tonnage calculation is crucial for selecting the right size AC unit for a space. Undersized units won't cool effectively, while oversized units cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and comfort.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter BTU value in BTU/h. The value must be valid (BTU > 0). The calculator will automatically convert to tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 1 ton equal to 12,000 BTU?
A: The term "ton" in cooling refers to the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours, which equals 12,000 BTU per hour.

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 about 400-600 square feet depending on climate and insulation.

Q3: How do I determine the BTU requirement for my space?
A: BTU requirements depend on square footage, ceiling height, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors. Professional load calculations are recommended.

Q4: Can I use this for mini-split systems?
A: Yes, the conversion applies to all types of air conditioning systems, though proper sizing requires more detailed calculations.

Q5: What happens if I choose the wrong tonnage?
A: Incorrect tonnage can lead to poor cooling performance, higher energy bills, reduced equipment lifespan, and humidity control issues.