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Tonnage Formula:
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The tonnage formula calculates air conditioning capacity in tons from BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour. One ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTU/h, which represents the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
The calculator uses the tonnage formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts BTU/h measurements to standard tons of cooling capacity, which is commonly used in the HVAC industry to specify air conditioner sizes.
Details: Proper tonnage calculation is essential for selecting the right size air conditioning unit for a space. Undersized units will struggle to cool effectively, while oversized units will cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
Tips: Enter the BTU/h value from your air conditioner specifications or load calculation. The value must be greater than zero. The result will show the equivalent cooling capacity in tons.
Q1: What is the relationship between tons and BTU?
A: One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour. This measurement originated from the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
Q2: How many BTU are in a 2-ton AC unit?
A: A 2-ton AC unit has a cooling capacity of 24,000 BTU per hour (2 × 12,000 = 24,000).
Q3: What size AC unit do I need for my home?
A: AC sizing depends on many factors including square footage, insulation, climate, and number of occupants. Generally, you need about 20 BTU per square foot, but a professional load calculation is recommended.
Q4: Can I use this formula for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the same formula applies to heat pumps as their heating and cooling capacities are typically rated in the same tons/BTU measurements.
Q5: What's the difference between nominal tons and actual capacity?
A: Nominal tons refer to the standard rating (e.g., 2-ton, 3-ton), while actual capacity may vary slightly based on specific model efficiency and operating conditions.