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AC Capacity Formula:
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AC Capacity refers to the cooling power of an air conditioning system, measured in tons. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/hr (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 AC capacity formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts the cooling capacity from BTU/hr to tons, which is the standard unit used in the HVAC industry for sizing air conditioning systems.
Details: Proper AC capacity calculation is crucial for selecting the right-sized air conditioning unit for a space. Undersized units will struggle to cool effectively, while oversized units will cycle on and off frequently, leading to inefficient operation and poor humidity control.
Tips: Enter the BTU/hr rating of the air conditioning unit. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will automatically convert it to tons of cooling capacity.
Q1: What is the relationship between BTU and tons?
A: One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/hr. This measurement originated from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.
Q2: How do I determine the BTU requirement for my space?
A: BTU requirements depend on room size, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors. Generally, you need about 20 BTU per square foot, but professional load calculations are recommended.
Q3: What are common AC capacity sizes?
A: Residential units typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons (18,000 to 60,000 BTU/hr), while commercial systems can be much larger.
Q4: Why is proper sizing important?
A: Proper sizing ensures efficient operation, adequate cooling, proper humidity control, and longer equipment lifespan. Oversized or undersized units can lead to comfort issues and higher energy costs.
Q5: Can I use this for heat pump calculations?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies to heat pumps' cooling capacity, as they are rated in the same units for cooling performance.