1. What is BTU to Ton Conversion?

The BTU to ton conversion is used in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems to convert heating/cooling capacity from British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h) to tons of refrigeration. One ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU/h.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Tons of refrigeration
• \( BTU/h \) — British Thermal Units per hour
• \( 12,000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h)

Explanation: This formula converts the heating or cooling capacity from BTU per hour to equivalent tons, which is the standard unit for air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

3. Importance of HVAC Capacity Conversion

Details: Accurate capacity conversion is crucial for proper HVAC system sizing, equipment selection, energy efficiency calculations, and ensuring adequate cooling/heating for specific spaces.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h value in the input field. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically convert to tons with four decimal places precision.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU/h equal to 1 ton?
A: This originates 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 are common residential AC unit sizes?
A: Common sizes range from 1.5 tons (18,000 BTU/h) to 5 tons (60,000 BTU/h) for typical homes.

Q3: How do I determine the right tonnage for my space?
A: Professional HVAC contractors use Manual J calculations considering square footage, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors.

Q4: Can I use this for both heating and cooling systems?
A: Yes, the conversion applies to both heating capacity (furnaces) and cooling capacity (air conditioners).

Q5: What's the difference between BTU and BTU/h?
A: BTU measures energy, while BTU/h measures power (energy per hour). HVAC systems are rated in BTU/h capacity.