1. What is Gas Furnace Tonnage?

Gas furnace tonnage is a measure of cooling capacity where 1 ton equals 12,000 BTU per hour. It helps determine the appropriate size of a gas furnace for a given space.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Cooling capacity in tons
• \( Output\ BTU \) — British Thermal Units per hour

Explanation: This simple conversion divides the BTU output by 12,000 to determine the equivalent tonnage.

3. Importance of Tonnage Calculation

Details: Proper tonnage calculation ensures your furnace is correctly sized for your space - neither too small (inefficient) nor too large (short cycling).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the furnace's output BTU rating (found on the unit's specification plate). The calculator will convert it to tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between input and output BTU?
A: Input BTU is the energy consumed, while output BTU is the actual heating capacity after accounting for efficiency.

Q2: How many tons do I need for my home?
A: Typically 1 ton per 400-600 sq ft, but a Manual J calculation by an HVAC professional is recommended for accurate sizing.

Q3: Can I use this for heat pumps or AC units?
A: Yes, the tonnage calculation works the same way for all cooling systems.

Q4: What's the average tonnage for a residential furnace?
A: Most homes use 2-5 ton systems, depending on size and climate.

Q5: Why is proper tonnage important?
A: Correct sizing ensures energy efficiency, proper humidity control, and system longevity.