1. What is AC Tonnage?

AC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system, where 1 ton equals 12,000 BTU per hour. Proper sizing is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Area of the space in square feet
• 25 — Standard BTU per square foot (adjustable for climate)
• 12000 — Conversion factor (BTU to tons)

Explanation: The formula calculates the required cooling capacity based on the area of the space and standard cooling requirements.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Correct AC sizing prevents energy waste, ensures proper dehumidification, and extends equipment life. Oversized units short cycle, while undersized units run continuously.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total area of the space in square feet. For more accurate results, consider factors like ceiling height, insulation, and climate.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if my ceilings are higher than 8 feet?
A: Increase the calculated tonnage by 10-20% for each additional foot of ceiling height.

Q2: Does this work for commercial spaces?
A: Commercial spaces may require different calculations due to higher heat loads from equipment and occupancy.

Q3: How does climate affect the calculation?
A: Hotter climates may require 30-40 BTU/sq ft instead of 25, while milder climates may need only 20 BTU/sq ft.

Q4: What about windows and insulation?
A: Poor insulation or many windows may require increasing the BTU/sq ft value in the calculation.

Q5: Should I round up the tonnage?
A: It's generally recommended to round up to the nearest half ton for residential systems.