About this calculator This calculator converts cooling capacity between BTU per hour and refrigeration tons, using the standard relationship of 12,000 BTU/hr per ton. Use it when comparing equipment ratings across manufacturers that may express capacity in different units, or when converting between specifications and load calculations.
Use when You need to convert cooling capacity between BTU per hour and refrigeration tons.
Formula 1 Ton = 12,000 BTU/Hr
Variables
Value Cooling capacity in BTU/Hr or Tons
Conversion Direction
BTU/Hr
Enter the cooling capacity to convert
Tons —

What is a ton of refrigeration?

A ton of refrigeration is a unit of cooling capacity equal to 12,000 BTU per hour. The term originates from the amount of heat required to melt one short ton (2,000 pounds) of ice at 32°F in 24 hours: 2,000 lb multiplied by the latent heat of fusion of ice (144 BTU/lb) divided by 24 hours equals 12,000 BTU/hr. In commercial HVAC, cooling equipment capacity is commonly expressed in tons for larger systems and BTU/hr for smaller equipment. Residential air conditioners typically range from 1.5 to 5 tons (18,000 to 60,000 BTU/hr), while commercial rooftop units range from 3 to 150 tons. Manufacturers may list capacity in either unit depending on the product line, so conversion between the two is a routine step in equipment selection and load calculation review.

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