1. What is BTU to Ton Conversion?

BTU to ton conversion is used in air conditioning and refrigeration to convert British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h) to refrigeration tons. One ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU per hour, which represents the cooling capacity needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• \( BTU \) — British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h)
• \( Ton \) — Refrigeration tons
• \( 12000 \) — Conversion factor (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h)

Explanation: This simple division converts cooling capacity from BTU per hour to equivalent refrigeration tons.

3. Importance of BTU to Ton Conversion

Details: This conversion is essential for HVAC professionals, engineers, and homeowners to properly size air conditioning systems, compare cooling capacities, and ensure efficient system performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU value in BTU per hour. The calculator will automatically convert it to refrigeration tons. For example, 24,000 BTU/h equals 2 tons of cooling capacity.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 12,000 BTU equal to 1 ton?
A: This comes from the historical definition where one ton of refrigeration represents the heat absorption required to melt one ton (2000 lbs) of ice at 32°F in 24 hours.

Q2: What is a typical residential AC unit size?
A: Most residential central air conditioners range from 1.5 to 5 tons (18,000 to 60,000 BTU/h), depending on home size and climate.

Q3: How do I determine the right size AC for my home?
A: Professional load calculation (Manual J) considers square footage, insulation, windows, climate, and occupancy for accurate sizing.

Q4: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies to both cooling and heating capacities of heat pump systems.

Q5: What happens if my AC is oversized?
A: Oversized units short cycle, reducing efficiency, increasing humidity, and shortening equipment lifespan.