HVAC Converter: Tons to BTU, kW, HP Calculator
Convert HVAC units instantly: tons to BTU/hr, kW to BTU, horsepower to kW, CFM calculations. Professional HVAC conversion calculator for engineers, technicians, and contractors.
HVAC Unit Converter
Standard cooling capacity conversion
HVAC Quick Reference
Common Conversions
Typical Design Values
HVAC Conversion Reference Table
| From Unit | To Unit | Multiply By | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Ton | 12,000 BTU/hr | 12,000 | Cooling capacity |
| 1 HP | 0.746 kW | 0.746 | Motor power |
| 1 kW | 3,412 BTU/hr | 3,412 | Electric heating |
| 1 CFM | 0.472 L/s | 0.472 | Airflow rate |
| 1 Ton | 3.517 kW | 3.517 | Cooling load |
| 1 MBH | 0.293 kW | 0.293 | Heating load |
How to Convert HVAC Units
Cooling Load Conversions
Tons to BTU/hr: multiply by 12,000
BTU/hr to tons: divide by 12,000
Example: 3 tons × 12,000 = 36,000 BTU/hr
Power Conversions
HP to kW: multiply by 0.746
kW to HP: divide by 0.746
Example: 10 HP × 0.746 = 7.46 kW
Heat Load Conversions
kW to BTU/hr: multiply by 3,412
BTU/hr to kW: divide by 3,412
Example: 5 kW × 3,412 = 17,060 BTU/hr
Airflow Conversions
CFM to L/s: multiply by 0.472
L/s to CFM: divide by 0.472
Example: 1000 CFM × 0.472 = 472 L/s
HVAC Design Guidelines
Cooling Load Rules of Thumb
System Performance Standards
HVAC Conversion FAQ
How many BTU/hr is 1 ton of cooling?
1 ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/hr. This is the standard refrigeration ton used in HVAC calculations. To convert tons to BTU/hr, multiply by 12,000.
How do you convert horsepower to kilowatts?
To convert horsepower to kilowatts, multiply by 0.746. For example: 10 HP × 0.746 = 7.46 kW. This conversion is used for motor sizing and electrical load calculations.
What is the CFM per ton rule?
The standard rule is 400 CFM per ton of cooling. This means a 3-ton AC unit should move 1,200 CFM. Proper airflow is critical for system efficiency and comfort.
How many square feet does 1 ton of AC cool?
Generally, 1 ton of cooling covers 400-600 sq ft in residential applications, but this varies based on insulation, ceiling height, windows, and climate. Commercial spaces typically require more cooling.
What is a good SEER rating for air conditioners?
A SEER rating of 16 or higher is considered high efficiency. The minimum standard is 14 SEER. Higher SEER ratings mean lower energy consumption and operating costs.
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