AC Tonnage Calculator by Floor Area
Result
AC Tonnage Calculator The AC Tonnage Calculator estimates the cooling capacity an air conditioner needs for a space, in tons. It multiplies the floor area by an assumed cooling load per square foot and divides by 12,000 BTU/hr (one ton of cooling). Use it — free online calculator.
Formula
- AC tonnage by floor area calculator. This page explains the stated calculation method and provides a worked example.
- The main inputs are Floor area, Cooling load. Enter them in the units and format shown in the calculator.
- Keep measurements and project assumptions consistent before comparing or combining values.
- Changing any input above recalculates the result with the same calculation engine used by this page.
Example: AC Tonnage Calculator by Floor Area
- Floor area: 1200 sq ft
- Cooling load: 20 BTU/hr per sq ft
At an assumed 20 BTU/hr/ft², 1,200 ft² corresponds to 2 tons.
Sample result: Calculating…
Frequently asked questions
What does the AC Tonnage Calculator by Floor Area calculate?
This is a sizing estimate based on an explicit load assumption; professional HVAC sizing considers climate, insulation, windows, occupancy, and other heat gains.
Which values should I enter?
Enter Floor area, Cooling load using the units and format shown beside each field.
What formula does this calculator use?
The calculator uses the following relationship: Cooling tons = Floor area × Assumed cooling load (BTU/hr/ft²) ÷ 12,000.
Why might my result differ from another source?
Results can differ when another source uses different units, rounding rules, conventions or assumptions. Compare the inputs and definitions before comparing results.
Does the result update automatically?
Yes. Changing an input updates the result using the same calculation engine shown on this page.