1. What is AC Tonnage Calculation?

AC tonnage calculation determines the cooling capacity needed for a space based on its square footage. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/hour, which can cool about 400-600 square feet of space depending on climate conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Area to be cooled in square feet
• 20 — BTU per square foot (average for moderate climates)
• 12000 — Conversion factor (BTU to tons)

Explanation: The formula estimates cooling needs based on a standard calculation of 20 BTU per square foot, converted to tons of cooling capacity.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Proper AC sizing is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort. An undersized unit won't cool properly, while an oversized unit will short-cycle, reducing efficiency and failing to properly dehumidify.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total area to be cooled in square feet. For more precise calculations, consider climate factors, insulation quality, and sun exposure.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if I live in a very hot climate?
A: In hotter climates, you may need 25-30 BTU per square foot. Multiply your result by 1.25-1.5 for these areas.

Q2: What about room height?
A: For ceilings higher than 8 feet, multiply the area by (ceiling height ÷ 8) before calculating.

Q3: How does insulation affect this calculation?
A: Well-insulated spaces may need less capacity (15-18 BTU/sq ft), while poorly insulated spaces may need more (25-30 BTU/sq ft).

Q4: Should I round up or down?
A: Round to the nearest standard unit size (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, or 5 tons).

Q5: What about multi-zone systems?
A: For multi-zone systems, calculate each zone separately based on its square footage and usage patterns.