1. What is AC Tonnage?

AC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour. This measurement originated from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How the Calculation Works

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: This conversion allows you to determine the appropriate size of an air conditioning unit based on its BTU rating.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Correctly sizing your AC unit is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort. An oversized unit will cycle on and off too frequently, while an undersized unit will run constantly without properly cooling the space.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your air conditioning unit. The calculator will convert it to tons of cooling capacity. Common residential units range from 1.5 to 5 tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many square feet will 1 ton cool?
A: Generally, 1 ton cools about 400-600 sq ft, but this varies based on climate, insulation, and other factors.

Q2: What's the difference between BTU and tons?
A: Tons are simply a larger unit of cooling capacity where 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h.

Q3: What size AC do I need for my home?
A: A professional load calculation (Manual J) is best, but a rough estimate is 1 ton per 400-600 sq ft in moderate climates.

Q4: Are higher BTU units always better?
A: No, oversized units lead to humidity problems and inefficient operation. Proper sizing is more important.

Q5: How do I find my AC unit's BTU rating?
A: Check the model number (often contains BTU info) or nameplate on the outdoor condenser unit.