How many BTUh correspond to one ton of cooling?

One ton of cooling is defined as the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in a 24-hour period. This is a standard measurement used in HVAC systems to quantify cooling capacity. The equivalent in British Thermal Units per hour (BTUh) is 12,000 BTUh.

This value is significant because it provides a basis for calculating both the cooling effects of various air conditioning and heat pump systems and their efficiency. Understanding this standard allows HVAC professionals to accurately size systems based on the cooling load requirements of a space. By using the conversion factor of 12,000 BTUh per ton, technicians can effectively compare and evaluate the performance of different cooling units.