What does this tool do?
One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour. This calculator starts from a 20 BTU per sq ft rule, adjusts for ceiling height, climate and insulation, then rounds the result to the nearest half ton.
The Formula
BTU = Area × 20 × (Ceiling height ÷ 8) × Climate factor × Insulation factor; Tons = BTU ÷ 12,000Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of AC do I need for 2,000 sq ft?
Around 3.5–4 tons in a moderate climate with average insulation, but window area, orientation and air sealing can shift that by a ton.
Can I oversize an air conditioner?
Oversizing causes short cycling, poor dehumidification and higher bills. A room-by-room load calculation is the reliable way to size equipment.