1. What is AC Tonnage?

AC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system, measured in tons. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour, which represents the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AC tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Air conditioning tonnage
• \( BTU/hr \) — British Thermal Units per hour
• \( 12,000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr)

Explanation: This formula converts the cooling capacity from BTU per hour to standard tons, which is the common unit used in the HVAC industry to specify air conditioner sizes.

3. Importance of AC Tonnage Calculation

Details: Proper AC tonnage calculation is crucial for selecting the right-sized air conditioning unit for a space. An undersized unit will struggle to cool the area, while an oversized unit will short-cycle, leading to inefficient operation and poor humidity control.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU per hour rating of your air conditioning unit. This value is typically found on the unit's specification plate or in the product documentation. The calculator will instantly convert it to tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between tons and BTU?
A: One ton of cooling 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 room?
A: Generally, you need about 20 BTU for each square foot of living space. For accurate sizing, consider factors like ceiling height, insulation, window area, and climate.

Q3: What are common residential AC tonnage sizes?
A: Common residential sizes range from 1.5 tons (18,000 BTU) for small apartments to 5 tons (60,000 BTU) for larger homes. Most homes use 2-4 ton units.

Q4: Can I use this for commercial AC units?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies. Commercial units are often measured in tons, with larger systems ranging from 10 to 100+ tons.

Q5: Why is proper tonnage important?
A: Proper sizing ensures energy efficiency, optimal comfort, adequate humidity control, and extends the equipment's lifespan by preventing excessive cycling.