1. What is AC Tonnage?

AC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system, where 1 ton equals 12,000 BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour). It's a crucial measurement for determining the appropriate size of AC unit needed for a space.

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)
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h)

Explanation: This conversion allows you to determine how many tons of cooling capacity an AC unit provides based on its BTU rating.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Correct AC tonnage is essential for energy efficiency and comfort. An undersized unit won't cool properly, while an oversized unit will cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your AC unit (found on the nameplate or specification sheet). The calculator will instantly convert it to tons of cooling capacity.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many BTUs are in 1 ton of cooling?
A: 1 ton of cooling equals exactly 12,000 BTU per hour.

Q2: What size AC do I need for my home?
A: While this calculator converts BTU to tons, proper sizing requires a Manual J calculation considering square footage, insulation, climate, and other factors.

Q3: Are all 3-ton AC units the same?
A: No, while they have similar cooling capacity, efficiency (SEER rating), build quality, and features vary between models.

Q4: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies to heat pump cooling capacity.

Q5: What's the typical tonnage for residential AC?
A: Most homes use 1.5 to 5 tons, depending on size and climate.