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 per hour, which represents the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard AC tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Air conditioning capacity in tons
• \( Sq Ft \) — Total square footage of the space in square feet
• \( \frac{1}{400} \) — Standard conversion factor (1 ton per 400 sq ft)

Explanation: This formula provides a basic estimate for residential cooling requirements, assuming standard ceiling heights and typical insulation levels.

3. Importance of Proper AC Sizing

Details: Correct 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 total square footage of the area to be cooled. For multi-room calculations, use the combined square footage. This calculator provides a basic estimate; professional Manual J calculation is recommended for precise sizing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the ratio 1 ton per 400 square feet?
A: This is a general rule of thumb for moderately insulated homes in temperate climates. Actual requirements may vary based on climate, insulation, and other factors.

Q2: What factors affect AC tonnage requirements?
A: Climate zone, insulation quality, window area, ceiling height, number of occupants, and heat-generating appliances all impact cooling load.

Q3: Should I round up or down when selecting AC size?
A: It's generally better to round to the nearest standard unit size (1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 5 tons). Professional assessment is recommended.

Q4: What if my home has high ceilings or lots of windows?
A: These factors increase cooling load. You may need to adjust the calculation upward by 10-25% depending on the specific conditions.

Q5: Is this calculator suitable for commercial spaces?
A: This calculator is designed for residential applications. Commercial spaces require more complex calculations considering occupancy, equipment, and ventilation requirements.