1. What is AC Tonnage?

AC tonnage is a unit of measurement for cooling capacity in air conditioning systems. One ton of cooling 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:

• \( BTU/hr \) — British Thermal Units per hour
• \( Ton \) — Refrigeration tons (cooling capacity)

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

3. Importance of AC Tonnage Calculation

Details: Properly sizing an AC unit is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort. An undersized unit won't cool effectively, while an oversized unit will cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and potentially causing humidity problems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/hr rating of your AC unit. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will instantly convert it to tons of cooling capacity.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to one 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 per hour of heat.

Q2: How many square feet will one ton of cooling cover?
A: Generally, one ton cools approximately 400-600 square feet, but this varies based on climate, insulation, ceiling height, and other factors.

Q3: What's the typical tonnage for residential AC units?
A: Residential units typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons, with most homes requiring 2-4 tons depending on size and location.

Q4: Can I use this for heat pumps as well?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies to heat pumps as they use the same measurement for cooling capacity.

Q5: Is higher tonnage always better?
A: No, proper sizing is essential. An oversized unit will short cycle, reducing efficiency, increasing wear, and potentially failing to properly dehumidify the air.