Capacity conversion
BTU to Tons Calculator
Convert a known BTU/h thermal capacity to refrigeration tons and thermal kW.
Convert BTU/h to tons
One refrigeration ton is 12,000 BTU/h.
How to use this converter
- Enter a rated or calculated heat-transfer capacity in BTU/h.
- Read the equivalent refrigeration tons and thermal kW.
- Confirm that the source value is a thermal rate, not an electrical wattage label.
Formula
Thermal kW = BTU/h ÷ 3,412.141633
Variables and units
| Term | Meaning | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| BTU/h | Heat-transfer rate or rated capacity | British thermal units per hour |
| RT | Conventional HVAC capacity unit | Refrigeration tons |
| kW thermal | Equivalent rate in SI units | Kilowatts of thermal capacity |
Example
A capacity of 24,000 BTU/h ÷ 12,000 = 2 refrigeration tons. It is also 7.034 kW of thermal capacity. Neither figure tells you the unit’s electrical demand or proves the capacity matches a specific room.
Result interpretation
Use tonnage to compare capacities reported in different HVAC conventions. First calculate a site-specific load; then compare it with the manufacturer’s capacity at applicable rating conditions. Equipment efficiency, latent performance, airflow, ducts, and controls are separate design questions.
Do not select equipment from tonnage alone
For a transparent preliminary load, start with the HVAC Load Calculator. Use this tool afterward to express the result in refrigeration tons.
Frequently asked questions
Is tonnage electrical power?
No. Refrigeration tons are thermal capacity. Electrical demand requires equipment-specific input and efficiency data.
Can I convert total Btu rather than BTU/h?
Not directly. Tonnage is a capacity rate, so the input must be a heat-transfer rate such as BTU/h.
What does 1.5 tons equal in BTU/h?
1.5 × 12,000 = 18,000 BTU/h.