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 originated from 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 allows you to determine the appropriate size of an HVAC unit based on its BTU rating.

3. Importance of Proper Tonnage Calculation

Details: Correctly sizing an HVAC unit is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. An undersized unit will struggle to cool, while an oversized unit will short-cycle, wasting energy.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your HVAC equipment. The calculator will convert it to tons of cooling capacity. For whole-house systems, a Manual J calculation is recommended for precise sizing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many square feet will 1 ton cool?
A: Approximately 400-600 sq ft, but this varies by climate, insulation, and other factors.

Q2: What's the difference between BTU and tonnage?
A: They measure the same thing - 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h. Tonnage is just a different unit of measurement.

Q3: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the calculation works the same for heat pumps in cooling mode.

Q4: What's a typical residential AC unit size?
A: Most homes use 1.5-5 ton units, depending on size and climate.

Q5: Why is proper sizing important?
A: Proper sizing ensures energy efficiency, comfort, humidity control, and system longevity.