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HVAC Tonnage Formula:
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The HVAC tonnage formula calculates the required cooling capacity in tons from British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h). One ton of cooling 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 HVAC tonnage formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts BTU/h measurements to standard HVAC tonnage units used for sizing air conditioning systems.
Details: Proper HVAC tonnage calculation is crucial for selecting the right-sized air conditioning system. Oversized or undersized systems can lead to inefficient operation, increased energy costs, poor humidity control, and reduced equipment lifespan.
Tips: Enter the BTU/h value in the input field. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will automatically convert BTU/h to tons of cooling capacity.
Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU/h equal to one ton?
A: This measurement originated from the amount of heat required to melt one ton (2000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours, which equals 12,000 BTU per hour.
Q2: What is a typical tonnage range for residential AC units?
A: Residential air conditioners typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons, with most homes requiring 2-4 tons depending on square footage and climate.
Q3: How many square feet does one ton cool?
A: Generally, one ton can cool 400-600 square feet, but this varies based on climate, insulation, ceiling height, and other factors.
Q4: What happens if my AC unit is oversized?
A: Oversized units cycle on and off frequently, leading to poor humidity control, uneven temperatures, and reduced efficiency.
Q5: Should I consider other factors besides square footage?
A: Yes, proper sizing should also consider insulation quality, window types, ceiling height, sun exposure, and local climate conditions.