BTU to Tons Conversion - Accurate BTU/hr ⇄ Tons of Cooling Tool
Convert between BTU per hour (BTU/hr) and tons of refrigeration with precision using standard cooling capacity measurements
Cooling capacity is an important factor in air conditioning, refrigeration, and HVAC systems. Two common units for measuring cooling are BTU per hour (BTU/hr) and tons of cooling.
A BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. A ton of cooling refers to the cooling power required to freeze one ton of ice in 24 hours.
Knowing how to perform a BTU to tons conversion and the reverse tons to BTU helps engineers, contractors, and homeowners select the right air conditioning system.
Why Use This BTU ⇄ Tons Converter?
- Accurate formula: Uses the official HVAC standard.
- Two-way conversion: Converts BTU to tons and tons to BTU.
- Quick results: Saves time and avoids miscalculation.
- Clear display: Shows exact and rounded values.
- Practical: Used in air conditioning, refrigeration, and energy management.
How to Use the Converter
- Enter the value in BTU/hr or tons.
- Choose the conversion direction.
- Get the instant result.
- Use it for HVAC sizing, efficiency checks, or cooling comparisons.
What is BTU?
The BTU (British Thermal Unit) is a traditional unit of heat energy.
Key Facts About BTU
- 1 BTU = energy to raise 1 lb of water by 1°F.
- Commonly expressed as BTU/hr for cooling systems.
- Abbreviation: BTU or BTU/hr.
- Used in: Air conditioners, heaters, and energy calculations.
What is a Ton of Cooling?
A ton of cooling is a unit used in HVAC to measure cooling power.
Key Facts About Tons of Cooling
- 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr.
- Represents heat absorbed to freeze 1 ton of ice in 24 hours.
- Abbreviation: ton (refrigeration ton).
- Used in: Central AC units, chillers, and refrigeration systems.
BTU to Tons Conversion Formula
Formula:
Tons = BTU/hr ÷ 12,000
BTU to Tons Conversion Example
- 12,000 BTU/hr to tons
Formula: Tons = 12,000 ÷ 12,000
Result = 1 ton
- 24,000 BTU/hr to tons
Formula: Tons = 24,000 ÷ 12,000
Result = 2 tons
- 60,000 BTU/hr to tons
Formula: Tons = 60,000 ÷ 12,000
Result = 5 tons
Tons to BTU Conversion Formula
Formula:
BTU/hr = Tons × 12,000
Tons to BTU Conversion Example
- 1 ton to BTU/hr
Formula: BTU/hr = 1 × 12,000
Result = 12,000 BTU/hr
- 2 tons to BTU/hr
Formula: BTU/hr = 2 × 12,000
Result = 24,000 BTU/hr
- 5 tons to BTU/hr
Formula: BTU/hr = 5 × 12,000
Result = 60,000 BTU/hr
Applications of BTU ⇄ Tons Conversion
- Air Conditioning: Home ACs are typically rated in tons, while portable units use BTUs.
- HVAC Engineering: Helps professionals design systems for buildings and industries.
- Refrigeration: Commercial freezers and chillers often list ratings in tons.
- Energy Efficiency: Conversions help in comparing systems for power usage.
- Appliance Selection: Ensures correct system size for comfort and cost savings.
Quick Reference Table for BTU ⇄ Tons
BTU/hr | Tons of Cooling | Tons of Cooling | BTU/hr |
12,000 BTU/hr | 1 ton | 1 ton | 12,000 BTU/hr |
24,000 BTU/hr | 2 tons | 2 tons | 24,000 BTU/hr |
36,000 BTU/hr | 3 tons | 3 tons | 36,000 BTU/hr |
60,000 BTU/hr | 5 tons | 5 tons | 60,000 BTU/hr |
Use our BTU ⇄ tons converter at Digital Calculator for accurate, fast, and simple results. Whether you’re an HVAC technician, engineer, or homeowner, our tool helps you make the right cooling capacity decisions.