Convert Refrigeration Tons to BTU/h
Use this simple calculator to convert refrigeration tons to British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h). Ideal for air conditioning professionals, engineers, and contractors.
Ton to BTU/h: What You Need to Know
What Is a Refrigeration Ton?
A refrigeration ton is a unit of power used to describe the cooling capacity of air conditioners and other refrigeration equipment. Historically, it comes from the amount of heat required to melt one ton (2,000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours.
- 1 refrigeration ton = 12,000 BTU/h
This means a 1-ton AC can remove 12,000 BTUs of heat from a space in one hour.
What Is a BTU/h?
BTU/h stands for British Thermal Units per hour. It is a measure of power, indicating the rate at which thermal energy is transferred. It is widely used in North America to express the heating or cooling capacity of systems.
Conversion Formula
- BTU/h = Tons × 12,000
- Tons = BTU/h ÷ 12,000
Use Cases for This Conversion
HVAC technicians, mechanical engineers, and facility managers often need to convert tons to BTU/h when sizing equipment, comparing specifications, or planning system upgrades. Some scenarios include:
- Determining total cooling demand in BTU/h from equipment rated in tons
- Matching building heat load with compatible AC units
- Translating between U.S. and international unit conventions
Conversion Table
| Refrigeration Tons | Equivalent BTU/h |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 6,000 |
| 1 | 12,000 |
| 2.5 | 30,000 |
| 5 | 60,000 |
| 10 | 120,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all tons equal to 12,000 BTU/h?
In the context of HVAC and cooling, yes. The industry-standard conversion is 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h. This does not apply to metric tons or short tons (mass), which are unrelated concepts.
Why is cooling measured in tons?
This unit originated from the ice-making industry. One ton of ice absorbs 12,000 BTUs per hour while melting, so this became a practical reference point for refrigeration systems.
What’s the difference between a ton and a metric tonne?
They are completely different. A refrigeration ton is a unit of cooling power. A metric tonne is a unit of mass (1,000 kilograms). Don’t confuse them.
Can I use this conversion for heating systems?
Yes, in theory. Heating and cooling capacities are both measured in BTU/h, but tons are almost always used for cooling capacity. Heating systems are typically rated directly in BTU/h or kW.
How accurate is this conversion?
The value 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h is an accepted engineering standard and accurate for all practical applications in HVAC design and system sizing.