Definition: A unit of cooling capacity equal to the rate of heat absorption required to melt one ton (2,000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours. Equals 12,000 BTU/h or 3.517 kW.
Why It Matters: Equipment capacity is often specified in “tons.” A “3-ton unit” provides 36,000 BTU/h or 10.6 kW of cooling.
Conversion:
- 1 ton = 3.517 kW
- 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/h
- 1 kW = 0.284 tons
Related Terms: BTU, Kilowatt (kW), Cooling Capacity