1. What is AC Tonnage?

AC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system, where one ton equals 12,000 BTU/hr. This measurement originated from the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple conversion formula:

Where:

• \( BTU/hr \) — British Thermal Units per hour (cooling capacity)
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr)
• \( Tonnage \) — Result in tons of cooling capacity

Explanation: This formula converts BTU per hour measurements to standard AC tonnage, which is essential for proper HVAC system sizing and selection.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Correct AC tonnage calculation is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. Oversized units cycle too frequently, while undersized units struggle to maintain temperature.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/hr rating from your AC unit specifications. The calculator will instantly convert it to standard tonnage. Common residential units range from 1.5 to 5 tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is AC capacity measured in tons?
A: The term "ton" comes from the historical measure of how much heat is needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours, which equals 12,000 BTU/hr.

Q2: What's the typical tonnage for a house?
A: For a typical 2,000 sq ft home, 3-4 tons is common. Rule of thumb is 1 ton per 400-600 sq ft, but proper Manual J calculation is recommended.

Q3: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, this conversion works for both air conditioners and heat pumps, as both are rated in BTU/hr for cooling capacity.

Q4: What if my unit shows SEER rating?
A: SEER is efficiency rating, not capacity. Look for BTU/hr specification on the unit nameplate or in manufacturer documentation.

Q5: Is bigger AC tonnage always better?
A: No, oversized AC units can cause humidity problems, short cycling, and higher energy costs. Proper sizing is essential for optimal performance.