BTU to Tons Formula:
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The conversion between BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour) and Tons is used in air conditioning to express cooling capacity. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/h, which is the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
The calculator uses the simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion helps determine the appropriate size of air conditioning equipment needed for a space.
Details: Proper sizing of AC units is crucial for energy efficiency and performance. Undersized units won't cool adequately, while oversized units short-cycle, reducing efficiency and comfort.
Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating from your air conditioner or the calculated cooling load. The result will show the equivalent tonnage.
Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to 1 ton?
A: It originates from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton (2000 lbs) of ice in 24 hours (288,000 BTU/24h = 12,000 BTU/h).
Q2: What's the typical tonnage for residential AC units?
A: Residential units typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons (18,000 to 60,000 BTU/h).
Q3: How many square feet does 1 ton cool?
A: Approximately 400-600 sq ft in moderate climates, but this varies based on insulation, climate, and other factors.
Q4: Is higher tonnage always better?
A: No, oversized units cool too quickly without proper dehumidification, leading to a damp, uncomfortable environment.
Q5: What's the difference between BTU and BTU/h?
A: BTU measures energy, while BTU/h measures power (energy per time). In HVAC, BTU/h is standard for cooling capacity.