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AC Capacity Formula:
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AC tonnage calculation determines the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour, 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 formula converts BTU per hour measurements to standard AC tonnage, which is the industry standard for sizing air conditioning systems.
Details: Proper AC tonnage calculation is essential for selecting the right-sized air conditioning unit for a space. Oversized units cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and humidity control, while undersized units struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Tips: Enter the BTU rating of your air conditioning unit. The calculator will instantly convert it to tons. Ensure the BTU value is positive and represents the unit's cooling capacity.
Q1: What is a BTU in air conditioning?
A: BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures the amount of heat an AC unit can remove from a space per hour. One BTU equals the heat required to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Q2: How many square feet does one ton of cooling cover?
A: Generally, one ton cools approximately 400-600 square feet, but this varies based on climate, insulation, ceiling height, and other factors.
Q3: Why is proper AC sizing important?
A: Proper sizing ensures energy efficiency, optimal humidity control, longer equipment life, and consistent comfort. Incorrect sizing leads to higher energy bills and reduced comfort.
Q4: What's the difference between BTU and tons?
A: BTU measures cooling capacity per hour, while tons represent the same capacity in standardized units (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h). Tons are commonly used for residential and commercial AC sizing.
Q5: Can I use this for heat pump calculations?
A: Yes, this conversion applies to both air conditioners and heat pumps, as both are rated in BTU for cooling capacity.