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AC Tonnage Formula:
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AC 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 AC tonnage formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts BTU per hour measurements into standard AC tonnage units, which is essential for proper HVAC system sizing and selection.
Details: Proper AC tonnage calculation is crucial for efficient cooling, energy savings, and preventing system overload. Undersized units struggle to cool spaces, while oversized units cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your air conditioning system. The value must be greater than 0. Common residential AC units range from 1.5 to 5 tons (18,000 to 60,000 BTU/h).
Q1: What is the relationship between tons and BTU/h?
A: One ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTU per hour. 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 space?
A: Generally, you need about 20 BTU for each square foot of living space, but factors like ceiling height, insulation, windows, and climate also affect the calculation.
Q3: What happens if I choose the wrong AC tonnage?
A: Too small - inadequate cooling and constant running. Too large - short cycling, poor humidity control, and reduced efficiency.
Q4: Are there different types of tons in AC measurements?
A: In HVAC, we use refrigeration tons (12,000 BTU/h), which is different from weight tons. This is a standardized unit for cooling capacity.
Q5: Can I convert tons to other cooling capacity units?
A: Yes, 1 ton also equals approximately 3.516 kilowatts (kW) or 12,000 BTU/h. Some regions may use different measurement systems.