Home
Back
HVAC Tonnage Formula:
| From: | To: |
HVAC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system, measured in tons. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/h (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 formula converts BTU/h cooling capacity to equivalent tons, which is the standard unit used in the HVAC industry for sizing air conditioning systems.
Details: Accurate tonnage calculation is crucial for proper HVAC system sizing. Undersized systems struggle to cool spaces effectively, while oversized systems short-cycle, reducing efficiency and increasing wear.
Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your HVAC system or the calculated cooling load. The calculator will instantly convert it to tons for proper system sizing and comparison.
Q1: What is the relationship between tons and BTU/h?
A: One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/h. This standard measurement originated from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
Q2: How do I determine the right tonnage for my home?
A: Professional HVAC contractors use Manual J calculations that consider square footage, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors to determine proper tonnage.
Q3: What are common residential HVAC tonnage sizes?
A: Common sizes range from 1.5 tons (18,000 BTU/h) for small apartments to 5 tons (60,000 BTU/h) for larger homes, typically in 0.5-ton increments.
Q4: Can I use this for commercial systems?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies, though commercial systems often use larger units measured in multiple tons or refrigeration tons.
Q5: Why is proper tonnage sizing important?
A: Proper sizing ensures energy efficiency, optimal comfort, adequate humidity control, and extends equipment lifespan by preventing excessive cycling.