Let us clear up any doubt you may have about what “ton” really means when purchasing an air conditioner: it has nothing to do with the device’s weight. Rather, “ton” refers to the unit is cooling capacity.
The hot summer months in India are driving up demand for air conditioners. But tonnage is a crucial metric to comprehend when purchasing a new air conditioner. A lot of people think that “ton” refers to the air conditioner’s weight. In actuality, the cooling capability is crucial.
What does AC’s “ton” actually mean?
In the context of air conditioners, “ton” refers to the quantity of heat that the unit can extract from a space in an hour rather than the unit is weight.
A one-ton air conditioner can chill 12,000 British Thermal Units per hour.
18,000 BTU/hr is produced by a 1.5-ton AC.
24,000 BTU are produced per hour by a 2-ton AC.
More tonnage simply means faster and more effective cooling, especially in larger spaces.
Which AC tonnage is appropriate for the size of your room?
Choosing the right tonnage is important. This is a general guide:
One ton: Ideal for small areas up to 120 square feet.
1.5 ton: Ideal for rooms that are between 120 and 180 square feet in size.
2 ton: Perfect for spaces over 180 square feet.
While using a large AC will result in needless energy consumption, using a low-capacity AC for a large space will result in poor cooling and higher electricity bills.
Why your electricity bill is impacted by tonnage
Tonnage has an impact on both cooling and electricity use. An air conditioner that is the right size and has a high energy rating (like five stars) guarantees effective cooling while lowering the price of electricity. Climate also matters; a high-tonnage air conditioner might work better if you live in a hot, muggy place.
Tonnage and weight are not the same thing!
You can choose more wisely now that you know that the “ton” in AC refers to cooling capacity rather than weight. When selecting the appropriate tonnage, always take local weather, insulation, and room size into account. In addition to saving you money, the proper AC tonnage will make your summers comfortable and cool.