1. What is Air Conditioner Tonnage?

Air conditioner tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an AC unit. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour). This measurement originates from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Cooling capacity in tons
• \( BTU/h \) — British Thermal Units per hour (input value)

Explanation: This calculation converts BTU/h (a measure of heat removal rate) into tons (a standard unit for AC capacity).

3. Importance of Proper Tonnage Calculation

Details: Correct tonnage calculation is essential for proper AC sizing. An undersized unit won't cool effectively, while an oversized unit will short-cycle, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your air conditioner (found on the unit's specification plate). The calculator will convert it to tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the BTU/h rating for a 3-ton AC?
A: 36,000 BTU/h (3 × 12,000).

Q2: How many square feet will a 3-ton AC cool?
A: Approximately 1,500-1,800 sq ft, depending on climate, insulation, and other factors.

Q3: What's the difference between nominal and actual tonnage?
A: Nominal is the rounded number (like 3-ton), actual is the precise calculation which might be 2.8 or 3.2 tons.

Q4: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the calculation is the same for heat pumps in cooling mode.

Q5: Why is proper sizing important?
A: Proper sizing ensures energy efficiency, adequate cooling, proper humidity control, and equipment longevity.