The term HVAC tonnage relates specifically to your HVAC cooling system. A ton in HVAC terms refers not to the weight of your central air conditioner or heat pump but to its cooling capacity.
By Anne Fonda
In this article, we will discuss:
Determining the correct AC tonnage for your home will depend on several factors. For the most accurate AC load calculation, work with a trained HVAC professional.
Some of the factors to consider include:
The following tonnage chart gives you a rough idea of the correct AC tonnage or heat pump cooling ability needed to cool a home based on square footage.
BTU to Tons Notice that one ton corresponds to 12,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units). One BTU refers to the amount of heat that’s needed to raise or lower one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. That means it can be used to rate energy transfer for furnaces, heat pumps, and other heating and cooling equipment.
| Home size (sq. ft.) | Unit Size (tons) | Unit Size (BTUs) |
| 1000 sq. ft. | 2-ton AC unit/2-ton heat pump | 24,000 BTUs |
| 1500 sq. ft. | 3-ton AC unit/3-ton heat pump | 36,000 BTUs |
| 2000 sq. ft. | 4-ton AC unit/4-ton heat pump | 48,000 BTUs |
| 2500 sq. ft. | 5-ton AC unit/5-ton heat pump | 60,000 BTUs |
You can find your system’s current tonnage by looking in your owner’s manual, or at the information plate on the outdoor unit, usually located on the side or back of the unit. Look for the model number, and then within the model for an even number between 18 and 60. That is the BTU rating for the unit. Divide that number by 12, and you’ll have your AC tonnage.
The chart above does not include 1.5-ton, 2.5-ton, and 3.5-ton units, but those are available as well in certain product lines. If you’re shopping for a new HVAC system, you might also find our system recommendation tool helpful.
When it comes to AC tonnage and your home, you want the Goldilocks system – not too big, and not too small. If the system is too small, it won’t cool your home as it should. It will have to run for longer periods to get your home to the desired temperature. That means higher energy bills.
If the system is oversized, it may be too powerful and cool your home too quickly, resulting in the thermostat shutting the unit off before it completes a full cycle. This is known as short cycling. This can lead to premature wear and tear, and higher energy bills. It can also mean the system doesn’t properly dehumidify your home, making you feel cold and clammy.
For the most accurate AC sizing or HVAC system sizing, consult with a reputable HVAC contractor. They will use the Manual J Residential Load Calculation to make precise recommendations.
If you’re getting a new air conditioner or new HVAC system, proper sizing is crucial to optimal energy efficiency. When you get a new air conditioner or heat pump, you will want to consider replacing your furnace at the same time so that you have a matched system. This system can offer the best energy efficiency, and some warranties require it.
The best way to ensure your new air conditioner has the correct tonnage and is sized right for your home is to contact your local Trane Comfort Specialist. They have the experience and expertise to help you get the air conditioner or new HVAC system that’s right for you and your home.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
Expert review by Kimberly Sexton, Senior Systems Engineer
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, a unit of measurement that shows just how much energy your cooling unit uses to remove heat from your home within an hour. Specifically, one BTU equals the amount of heat required to raise or lower the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Air conditioners remove heat and humidity from the air in your home and place it outside to reach your desired indoor temperature. Central AC cools your entire home, while ductless AC cools just one portion or room in your home.
Central air conditioning removes heat and humidity from your home and places it outside. The system then utilizes a series of ducts to re-distribute the newly cooled air throughout your home.
Dealers can answer questions, help you find the right products for your home, and repair your system.
Connect with our Customer Care team about your products, warranties, and dealer concerns.
Available Monday – Friday from 7am to 5pm CST
A phone