1. What is Air Conditioner Tonnage?

Tonnage in air conditioning refers to the cooling capacity of an AC unit. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour. This measurement helps determine the appropriate size of an air conditioner for a given space.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( BTU/h \) — British Thermal Units per hour (cooling capacity)
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h)

Explanation: This calculation converts the cooling capacity from BTU/h to tons, which is a common measurement for residential and commercial AC units.

3. Importance of Proper Tonnage

Details: Choosing the right tonnage is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort. An undersized unit won't cool properly, while an oversized unit will cycle on/off too frequently, wasting energy and not removing humidity effectively.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many square feet will 1 ton cool?
A: Approximately 400-600 sq ft in moderate climates, but this varies based on insulation, ceiling height, windows, and climate.

Q2: What's the difference between BTU and tons?
A: They both measure cooling capacity - 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h. Tons are typically used for larger residential and commercial units.

Q3: How do I know what size AC I need?
A: A professional load calculation (Manual J) is best, but rough estimates are 20 BTU per sq ft in moderate climates.

Q4: Can I convert tons back to BTU?
A: Yes, simply multiply tons by 12,000 (e.g., 2 tons = 24,000 BTU/h).

Q5: What's a typical tonnage for a home?
A: Average homes typically need 1.5-5 tons depending on size and climate.