🛠️ FreeToolsHub
❄️

How Many BTU in a Ton?

Convert BTU to tons of refrigeration for air conditioning. 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr. Find the right AC size for your room or home.

💡

Quick Answer: BTU to Ton Conversion

• 1 Ton = 12,000 BTU/hr (cooling capacity)

• 1.5 Ton = 18,000 BTU | 2 Ton = 24,000 BTU | 3 Ton = 36,000 BTU

Formula: Tons = BTU ÷ 12,000 | BTU = Tons × 12,000

🔄 BTU ↔ Ton Converter

6,000 BTU72,000 BTU

📝 Formula Used

Tons = 24,000 BTU ÷ 12,000 = 2.00 Tons

📊 Conversion Result

24,000 BTU/hr =
2.00 Tons

Also Equals:

BTU/hr:24,000 BTU/hr
Tons (Refrigeration):2.00 TR
Kilowatts (kW):7.03 kW
Suitable for:900-1,200 sq ft

❄️ Common AC Sizes

• 1.5 Ton = 18,000 BTU (bedroom)

• 2 Ton = 24,000 BTU (living room)

• 3 Ton = 36,000 BTU (small home)

❄️ Understanding BTU and Tons in Air Conditioning

When shopping for an air conditioner, you'll encounter two key measurements: BTU (British Thermal Units) and Tons. Understanding the relationship between these units helps you choose the right AC size for your space.

What is a BTU?

A BTU is a unit of energy that measures heat. In air conditioning, BTU/hr indicates how much heat an AC unit can remove from a room per hour. The higher the BTU rating, the more cooling power the unit has.

What is a Ton of Refrigeration?

1 Ton = 12,000 BTU/hr

This comes from the historical fact that melting 1 ton (2,000 lbs) of ice in 24 hours requires approximately 12,000 BTU per hour of heat absorption.

Common AC Sizes

Window & Portable Units

5,000-14,000 BTU (0.4-1.2 tons). Best for single rooms. A 10,000 BTU unit can cool a 400-450 sq ft room.

Mini-Split Systems

9,000-36,000 BTU (0.75-3 tons). Efficient for zones or small homes. Multi-zone systems can handle larger spaces.

Central AC Systems

24,000-60,000 BTU (2-5 tons). For whole-home cooling. Most homes need 2.5-4 tons depending on size and climate.

❄️ Quick Facts

1 Ton = 12,000 BTU/hr

Average home needs 2.5-3 tons

Rule of thumb: 20 BTU per sq ft

⚠️ Oversizing Warning

Bigger isn't always better! An oversized AC will short-cycle, causing humidity problems, higher bills, and faster wear. Always size correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 3 ton AC unit has 36,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity. This is calculated by multiplying 3 tons × 12,000 BTU/ton = 36,000 BTU/hr. A 3-ton unit is typically suitable for homes between 1,500-1,800 square feet, depending on climate and insulation.

For 800 square feet, you typically need 16,000-20,000 BTU/hr, which equals approximately 1.5 tons of cooling capacity. In hot climates or poorly insulated spaces, lean toward 20,000 BTU. In moderate climates with good insulation, 16,000 BTU may suffice.

A 2.5 ton AC unit provides 30,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity (2.5 × 12,000 = 30,000). This size is ideal for spaces between 1,200-1,500 square feet and is one of the most common residential AC sizes.

A 1.5 ton unit provides 18,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity. This is calculated as 1.5 × 12,000 = 18,000 BTU/hr. A 1.5-ton AC is suitable for rooms or spaces between 600-900 square feet, making it ideal for bedrooms or small living areas.

To convert BTU to tons of refrigeration, divide the BTU/hr value by 12,000. For example: 24,000 BTU ÷ 12,000 = 2 tons. Conversely, to convert tons to BTU, multiply tons by 12,000. For example: 2.5 tons × 12,000 = 30,000 BTU/hr.

For 1,500 square feet, you typically need a 2.5-3 ton AC unit (30,000-36,000 BTU/hr). In hot climates like Arizona or Florida, choose 3 tons. In moderate or cool climates with good insulation, 2.5 tons may be sufficient. Always consider factors like ceiling height, window count, and sun exposure.

❄️ Disclaimer: These calculations are estimates based on general guidelines. Actual AC sizing depends on many factors including ceiling height, window size, sun exposure, and local climate. Consult an HVAC professional for a proper load calculation (Manual J) before purchasing.