1. What is AC Tonnage?

AC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system, measured in tons. 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.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AC tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Air conditioner capacity in tons
• \( BTU \) — British thermal units per hour

Explanation: This formula converts BTU per hour to tons of cooling capacity, where 12,000 BTU equals one ton of cooling.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Proper AC sizing is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. An undersized unit will struggle to cool the space, while an oversized unit will short-cycle, leading to humidity problems and reduced efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU rating of your air conditioning system. The calculator will convert it to tons. Ensure the BTU value is positive and represents the actual cooling capacity of your unit.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between BTU and tons?
A: One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour. This conversion is standard in the HVAC industry.

Q2: How do I determine the right AC size for my home?
A: Professional HVAC contractors use Manual J calculations that consider square footage, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors to determine proper sizing.

Q3: What are common residential AC sizes?
A: Common residential sizes range from 1.5 to 5 tons, with typical homes requiring 2-4 tons depending on size and location.

Q4: Can I use this for commercial AC systems?
A: Yes, the formula works for any AC system, though commercial systems are often measured in larger units or directly in BTU.

Q5: Why is proper AC sizing important?
A: Proper sizing ensures optimal energy efficiency, adequate cooling, proper humidity control, and extends the equipment's lifespan.