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 energy 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 rough estimate of the required cooling capacity based on the square footage of the commercial space.

3. Importance of Proper HVAC Sizing

Details: Correct HVAC sizing ensures energy efficiency, proper humidity control, and equipment longevity. Oversized units short-cycle, while undersized units run continuously without reaching desired temperatures.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: What other factors affect HVAC sizing?
A: Ceiling height, insulation quality, window area, occupancy, and heat-generating equipment all impact sizing.

Q3: How accurate is this estimate?
A: This provides a rough estimate. Professional Manual J calculations are recommended for precise sizing.

Q4: What if my space has special requirements?
A: Server rooms, kitchens, and other high-heat areas may require additional capacity.

Q5: Should I round up the tonnage?
A: HVAC systems come in standard sizes (1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, etc. tons). Professional advice is recommended for final selection.