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BTU to Tonnage Conversion:
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BTU (British Thermal Unit) to tonnage conversion is used in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems to convert cooling capacity from BTU per hour to tons of refrigeration. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion is based on the standard definition that one ton of refrigeration equals the cooling effect of melting one ton of ice in 24 hours, which is equivalent to 12,000 BTU per hour.
Details: This conversion is essential for HVAC professionals, engineers, and homeowners to properly size air conditioning systems, compare cooling capacities, and ensure efficient system performance.
Tips: Enter the BTU value in BTU per hour. The calculator will automatically convert it to tons of refrigeration. Ensure the input value is positive and represents the actual cooling capacity.
Q1: What is a BTU in simple terms?
A: A BTU (British Thermal Unit) is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Q2: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to one ton?
A: This comes from the historical definition where one ton of refrigeration was the cooling effect of melting one ton (2000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours, which requires absorbing 12,000 BTU per hour.
Q3: What is a typical tonnage for residential AC units?
A: Residential air conditioners typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons (18,000 to 60,000 BTU), depending on the size of the home and climate conditions.
Q4: How do I determine the right tonnage for my space?
A: Proper sizing requires considering square footage, ceiling height, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors. It's best to consult with an HVAC professional.
Q5: Can I use this for heating systems as well?
A: While the conversion is primarily used for cooling capacity, it can also be applied to heat pumps and other systems that measure capacity in BTU/h.