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HVAC Tonnage Formula:
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HVAC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour, which represents the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
The calculator uses the HVAC tonnage formula:
Where:
Explanation: This simple calculation converts BTU rating to tons, which is the standard measurement for HVAC system capacity in the United States.
Details: Correctly sizing an HVAC 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, leading to humidity problems and reduced efficiency.
Tips: Enter the total BTU rating of your HVAC system. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will automatically convert it to tons.
Q1: Why is HVAC capacity measured in tons?
A: The term originates from the time when ice was used for cooling. One ton of cooling represents the heat absorption of one ton of ice melting over 24 hours.
Q2: What's the typical tonnage for residential homes?
A: Most homes require 1-5 tons of cooling capacity, with approximately 1 ton needed for every 400-600 square feet, depending on climate and insulation.
Q3: Can I use this for heat pump sizing?
A: Yes, the same calculation applies as heat pumps are rated in BTU for both heating and cooling capacity.
Q4: What factors affect HVAC tonnage requirements?
A: Square footage, ceiling height, insulation quality, window area, climate zone, and sun exposure all impact the required tonnage.
Q5: Should I size up for future expansion?
A: No, it's better to size accurately for current needs. Oversizing can cause more problems than undersizing, including poor humidity control and higher energy costs.