1. What is BTU?

BTU (British Thermal Unit) is a measurement of heat energy. In HVAC systems, it represents the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. For air conditioners and heat pumps, BTU ratings indicate cooling capacity.

2. How Does the Conversion Work?

The standard conversion formula is:

This conversion originates from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

3. Importance of Proper Sizing

Details: Correctly sizing your AC or heat pump is crucial for efficiency and comfort. An oversized unit will short cycle, while an undersized unit will run constantly without properly cooling your space.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the tonnage of your AC or heat pump (common residential sizes range from 1.5 to 5 tons). The calculator will instantly show the equivalent BTU rating.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is a 5-ton unit 60,000 BTU?
A: Because 5 × 12,000 BTU/ton = 60,000 BTU. This is the standard conversion in the HVAC industry.

Q2: Are all 5-ton units exactly 60,000 BTU?
A: Most are, but some high-efficiency models may have slightly different ratings. Always check the manufacturer's specifications.

Q3: How many square feet will a 5-ton unit cool?
A: Approximately 2,500-3,000 sq ft, depending on climate, insulation, and other factors.

Q4: What's the difference between BTU and SEER?
A: BTU measures capacity while SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency (BTU of cooling per watt-hour of electricity).

Q5: Can I use this for heat pumps in heating mode?
A: Yes, the BTU rating is typically the same for both cooling and heating modes in heat pumps.