1. What is HVAC Tonnage?

HVAC 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 helps determine the appropriate size of an AC unit for a given space.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula converts BTU per hour (a measure of heat removal) into tons of cooling capacity.

3. Importance of Tonnage Calculation

Details: Proper tonnage calculation ensures your HVAC system is correctly sized for your space. An undersized unit won't cool effectively, while an oversized unit will cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your HVAC equipment (found on the unit's specification plate) to calculate the equivalent tonnage. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the relationship between tons and BTU?
A: One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour. This originates from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

Q2: How many tons do I need for my home?
A: Residential systems typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons. A proper Manual J calculation considers square footage, insulation, windows, and climate.

Q3: What's the typical BTU per square foot?
A: Roughly 20 BTU per sq.ft., but this varies by climate. Hotter climates may need 25-30 BTU per sq.ft.

Q4: Can I convert tons to kW?
A: Yes. 1 ton ≈ 3.517 kW of cooling power.

Q5: Why is proper sizing important?
A: Proper sizing ensures energy efficiency, comfort, humidity control, and system longevity. Oversizing leads to short cycling, while undersizing results in inadequate cooling.