1. What is HVAC Tonnage?

HVAC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour. Proper tonnage calculation ensures efficient cooling without oversizing or undersizing the system.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Heat Load} \) — Total cooling requirement in BTU per hour
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr)

Explanation: The formula converts the heat load from BTU per hour to equivalent tons of cooling capacity.

3. Importance of Proper Tonnage Calculation

Details: Correct tonnage sizing is crucial for energy efficiency, proper humidity control, system longevity, and avoiding short cycling. Oversized units waste energy while undersized units can't maintain comfort.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total heat load in BTU/hr. The heat load should be calculated through a Manual J calculation or similar professional assessment for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between tonnage and SEER rating?
A: Tonnage measures cooling capacity while SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures energy efficiency.

Q2: How many square feet will 1 ton cool?
A: Roughly 400-600 sq ft per ton, but this varies based on insulation, climate, and other factors.

Q3: Can I use this for heat pump sizing?
A: Yes, the same tonnage calculation applies to heat pumps in cooling mode.

Q4: What if my calculation results in a fraction?
A: HVAC systems come in standard sizes (1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, etc. tons). Round up to the nearest standard size.

Q5: Why is oversizing bad?
A: Oversized units cycle on/off too frequently, reducing efficiency, increasing wear, and providing poor humidity control.