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 per hour. Proper sizing is crucial for efficiency and comfort in commercial spaces.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard commercial HVAC sizing formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Total square footage of the space
• \( 30 \) — Standard BTU per square foot for commercial spaces
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (BTU to tons)

Explanation: This formula provides a basic estimate of required cooling capacity based on the area of the commercial space.

3. Importance of Proper HVAC Sizing

Details: Correct HVAC sizing ensures energy efficiency, proper dehumidification, equipment longevity, and optimal comfort. Oversized units short cycle, while undersized units run constantly.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total square footage of your commercial space. For more accurate results, consider additional factors like insulation, window area, and occupancy.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is this calculator suitable for residential HVAC?
A: No, this uses commercial load calculations. Residential typically uses 20 BTU/sq ft instead of 30.

Q2: What factors can increase required tonnage?
A: High ceilings, large windows, poor insulation, high occupancy, or heat-producing equipment.

Q3: How accurate is this estimate?
A: It provides a basic estimate. Professional Manual J calculations are needed for precise sizing.

Q4: What about heating requirements?
A: Heating load calculations are different and depend on climate and building characteristics.

Q5: Should I round up the tonnage?
A: HVAC systems come in standard sizes. Professionals typically round to nearest half or whole ton based on specific needs.