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AC Tonnage Conversion Formula:
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AC tonnage conversion is the process of converting British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/hr) to tons of air conditioning capacity. One ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTU/hr, which represents the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
The calculator uses the standard conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion allows you to determine the appropriate air conditioning unit size based on the cooling capacity required for a space.
Details: Proper AC tonnage calculation is essential for selecting the right-sized air conditioning unit. An undersized unit will struggle to cool the space, while an oversized unit will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to inefficiency and poor humidity control.
Tips: Enter the BTU/hr value in the input field. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will automatically convert it to tons of AC capacity.
Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU/hr equal to 1 ton?
A: This measurement dates back to when cooling was measured by the amount of ice needed. One ton of ice melting over 24 hours absorbs 12,000 BTU per hour.
Q2: What are common AC tonnage sizes for homes?
A: Residential AC units typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons, with 2-3 tons being common for average-sized homes.
Q3: How do I determine the BTU requirement for my space?
A: BTU requirements depend on room size, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors. A professional load calculation is recommended for accurate sizing.
Q4: Can I use this for both residential and commercial AC units?
A: Yes, the conversion factor (12,000 BTU/hr = 1 ton) applies to all air conditioning systems regardless of size or application.
Q5: What happens if I choose the wrong tonnage?
A: Wrong tonnage can lead to poor performance, higher energy bills, reduced comfort, and shorter equipment lifespan due to excessive cycling or continuous operation.