1. What is a BTU to Tons Cooling Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts cooling capacity from BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour) to tons of refrigeration.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and engineers convert between these common units of cooling capacity measurement.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Tons of cooling
• \( Q \) — Cooling capacity in BTU/h

Explanation: One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/h, derived from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

3. Importance of Cooling Capacity Conversion

Details: Proper conversion ensures accurate equipment sizing, system design, and performance comparisons in HVAC applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cooling capacity in BTU/h. The calculator will automatically convert to tons of refrigeration.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 12,000?
A: This comes from the original definition of a "ton of refrigeration" - the heat absorption of one ton of ice melting over 24 hours.

Q2: What's a typical residential AC unit capacity?
A: Most homes have 1.5 to 5 ton units (18,000 to 60,000 BTU/h).

Q3: How precise is this conversion?
A: The 12,000 BTU/h = 1 ton is a standard industry conversion, though actual system performance may vary slightly.

Q4: Can I convert tons back to BTU/h?
A: Yes, simply multiply tons by 12,000 to get BTU/h.

Q5: Does this apply to both cooling and heating?
A: While the calculation works the same, "tons" is typically only used for cooling capacity.