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 tonnage calculation is essential for efficient commercial and industrial HVAC system design.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard commercial HVAC sizing formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Total floor area in square feet
• \( 35 \) — Standard BTU per square foot for commercial spaces
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (BTU to tons)

Explanation: This formula provides a basic estimate of cooling requirements for commercial spaces based on square footage.

3. Importance of Proper HVAC Sizing

Details: Correct HVAC sizing ensures energy efficiency, proper humidity control, and system longevity. Oversized units short-cycle, while undersized units can't maintain comfort.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total area of the commercial space in square feet. For more accurate results, consult with an HVAC professional who can consider additional factors.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is this calculator suitable for residential HVAC?
A: No, this uses commercial load calculations. Residential typically uses 20-25 BTU/sq ft instead of 35.

Q2: What factors does this simple calculator NOT consider?
A: It doesn't account for ceiling height, insulation, windows, occupancy, equipment heat loads, or climate.

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

Q4: What's the typical tonnage range for commercial spaces?
A: Most commercial spaces require 1-2 tons per 500-700 sq ft, but varies by building characteristics.

Q5: When should I consult an HVAC professional?
A: Always for final system design, but this calculator can help with initial planning and budgeting.