Enter your space details and get an accurate BTU load and tonnage recommendation — no HVAC license required.
Educational estimate only. Results are estimates based on user inputs and simplified assumptions — not a certified engineering analysis. Local building codes and manufacturer specifications govern final equipment selection. No professional-client relationship is created by using this tool. For permit applications, commercial projects, or complex structures, consult a licensed HVAC engineer.
A BTU (British Thermal Unit) is the energy needed to raise 1 lb of water by 1°F. HVAC systems are rated in BTU/hr — the higher your load, the larger your system needs to be.
One "ton" of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/hr. It comes from the heat absorbed by melting 1 ton of ice per day. Residential systems typically range from 1 to 5 tons.
An oversized system short-cycles — it cools too fast, shuts off, and never runs long enough to dehumidify properly. This leads to a clammy, uncomfortable home and higher wear on the equipment.