kW to Tons of Cooling Calculator

Cooling Capacity Formula:

\[ \text{Tons} = \frac{P_{\text{kW}}}{3.517} \]

Cooling Capacity (tons):

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1. What is a kW to Tons of Cooling Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts cooling capacity from kilowatts (kW) to tons of refrigeration.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and engineers convert between different units of cooling capacity measurement.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \text{Tons} = \frac{P_{\text{kW}}}{3.517} \]

Where:

\( \text{Tons} \) — Tons of refrigeration (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr)
\( P_{\text{kW}} \) — Power input in kilowatts (kW)

Explanation: One ton of refrigeration is equivalent to 3.517 kW of cooling power.

3. Importance of Cooling Capacity Conversion

Details: Proper conversion between units ensures accurate system sizing, equipment selection, and performance comparisons in HVAC applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cooling capacity in kilowatts (kW). The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a ton of refrigeration?
A: A ton of refrigeration is the amount of heat required to melt one ton (2000 lbs) of ice in 24 hours, equivalent to 12,000 BTU/hr or 3.517 kW.

Q2: Why is 3.517 the conversion factor?
A: This comes from the exact conversion between BTU/hr and watts (1 W = 3.412 BTU/hr), making 12,000 BTU/hr equal to 3,516.85 W or ~3.517 kW.

Q3: When would I need this conversion?
A: When comparing equipment specifications (some use kW, others use tons) or when working with international standards that use different units.

Q4: Is this for both heating and cooling?
A: This conversion is specifically for cooling capacity. Heating capacity may use different standards.

Q5: How precise is this conversion?
A: The conversion is mathematically exact, though real-world system efficiencies may affect actual performance.