1. What is AC Tonnage Calculation?

AC tonnage calculation determines the appropriate air conditioning capacity needed for a room based on its size and cooling requirements. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AC tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Square Feet \) — Area of the room in square feet
• \( BTU \text{ per sq ft} \) — Cooling requirement per square foot (typically 20-30 BTU/sq ft)
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hour)

Explanation: The formula calculates the required cooling capacity by multiplying the room area by the BTU requirement per square foot, then converts the result to tons of refrigeration.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Proper AC sizing 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, reducing efficiency and humidity control.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the room area in square feet and the BTU requirement per square foot (typically 20 for shaded rooms, 25 for average, 30 for sunny rooms). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical BTU per square foot requirement?
A: Typically 20-30 BTU per square foot, depending on factors like sunlight exposure, insulation, and room usage.

Q2: How many square feet does 1 ton of AC cool?
A: Approximately 400-600 square feet, depending on the BTU requirement per square foot and other factors.

Q3: What other factors affect AC sizing?
A: Ceiling height, number of windows, insulation quality, number of occupants, and heat-generating appliances.

Q4: Is it better to oversize or undersize an AC unit?
A: Neither. Both can cause problems. Proper sizing is essential for optimal performance and efficiency.

Q5: Should I consult a professional for AC sizing?
A: For whole-house systems, yes. Professional load calculations consider all factors for accurate sizing.