How many BTU in a ton of AC?
One ton of air conditioning equals 12,000 BTU per hour of cooling capacity.
AC Tonnage Calculator
Residential AC capacity is often quoted in tons — 1 ton = 12,000 BTU per hour. We calculate your room load in BTU and show matching tonnage plus the ductless head size you would buy.
Space dimensions
ft
in
ft
in
ft
in
Sizing settings
BTU to tons conversion
Divide BTU by 12,000. A 12,000 BTU unit is 1 ton; 18,000 BTU is 1.5 tons; 24,000 BTU is 2 tons. Mini-split boxes usually list BTU — tonnage is more common on central systems.
Whole-house vs single-room
“What ton AC for 1,500 sq ft?” requires room-by-room Manual J — not one multiplier. Rough planning for average homes is 2–3 tons total split across zones. This tool sizes one room or zone at a time.
For room-level BTU without tonnage framing, use the BTU calculator or mini-split calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What ton AC for 1,500 sq ft house?
Whole-house sizing needs room-by-room Manual J — not one sq-ft rule. Rough planning for average homes is 2–3 tons total, often split across multiple zones or a central system.
Is 1.5 ton the same as 18,000 BTU?
Yes. 1.5 tons × 12,000 = 18,000 BTU. Mini-split packaging often lists BTU instead of tonnage.
Related calculators
HVAC Calculators · https://hvaccalculators.net/tonnage-calculator/