1. What is HVAC Tonnage?

HVAC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system. One ton equals 12,000 BTU per hour, which is the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Area to be cooled in square feet
• 25 — Standard BTU per square foot factor
• 12000 — Conversion factor (BTU to tons)

Explanation: The formula estimates the cooling capacity needed based on the area size and standard cooling requirements.

3. Importance of Proper Tonnage Calculation

Details: Correct tonnage calculation ensures efficient cooling, proper humidity control, energy efficiency, and system longevity. Oversized units short cycle while undersized units run constantly.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between a 1.5 ton and 2 ton AC?
A: A 2-ton unit has about 33% more cooling capacity (24,000 BTU vs 18,000 BTU) and is suitable for larger spaces.

Q2: How many square feet will 1 ton cool?
A: Approximately 400-600 sq ft in moderate climates, but this varies based on insulation and other factors.

Q3: What if my home has high ceilings?
A: You may need additional capacity - multiply the area by the ratio of your ceiling height to standard 8-foot ceilings.

Q4: Does this work for commercial spaces?
A: Commercial spaces often require more complex calculations due to higher heat loads from equipment and occupancy.

Q5: Should I round up the tonnage?
A: It's generally better to round up to the nearest half-ton for adequate capacity, but consult an HVAC professional.