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/h (British Thermal Units 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 simple formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: This conversion helps determine the appropriate size of an air conditioning unit needed for a space based on its heat load.

3. Importance of Tonnage Calculation

Details: Proper tonnage calculation is crucial for efficient HVAC system operation. An undersized unit won't cool properly, while an oversized unit will cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total BTU/h value from your cooling load calculation. The result will show the equivalent cooling capacity in tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: 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.

Q2: What's the difference between BTU and tonnage?
A: Tonnage is simply a scaled version of BTU/h, where 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h.

Q3: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the same calculation applies to heat pump cooling capacity.

Q4: What if my calculation results in a fraction?
A: HVAC systems typically come in half-ton increments (1.5, 2, 2.5 tons, etc.).

Q5: Should I round up or down?
A: It's generally better to round up slightly rather than down to ensure adequate cooling capacity.