rating iconrating iconrating icon

HVAC Tonnage

HVAC tonnage

When you are calling around for a quote to have your air conditioner replaced you will almost always be asked the air conditioner’s tonnage. This can be a frustrating question if you have no idea what tonnage is, what it means or even how to find your systems tonnage. However, the best way for an HVAC contractor to give a customer more accurate pricing is with the tonnage of their air conditioner in hand. Having this vital piece of information can make the process a lot easier, when you decide you would like to replace your air conditioner.

What is Tonnage?

Tonnage (or ton for short) as it pertains to an HVAC system, is a unit of measurement that measures how much heat an air conditioner can cool per hour. One ton can cool 12,000 BTU (a measurement for heat) per hour.  The tonnage that is required to properly cool your home is calculated by the size and build of your home. This is often referred to as load calculation. The load calculation needed at your home is usually calculated by a structural engineer when the home is first built. However, an HVAC contractor may also be able to figure out the tonnage of a new installation as well. For a rough estimate, the rule of thumb is 1 ton per 400 sq ft of home or about 1.5ton for every 600 square feet. Another way to calculate the tonnage is by using the BTU’s on your current heating system. The cooling and heating system work together so the capacity must match. For instance, if you currently have a 36,000 BTU furnace then the corresponding air conditioning unit will likely be 3 ton. If you are replacing an existing air conditioner, one way to figure out the tonnage is by finding the number that is a multiple of 12 in the model number of the unit. That number will be in reference to the BTUs which you can then convert to tonnage.

Why is Tonnage Important?

The reason that tonnage is very important is because when it comes to your air conditioning unit, size really matters. If you get a unit that is too small, it will not be able to supply your home with a sufficient amount of cooled air and as a result will work too hard leading to premature failure. Though a larger unit may logically seem to be beneficial, it is not. An oversized system will cool your home too quickly, leading to short cycling and not completing the natural dehumidifying process. Not to mention the larger the system is, the less efficient it is. Having a system that is too large is needlessly pouring your money down the drain.

Understanding what tonnage is, how it is calculated and how to figure out your air conditioners tonnage is valuable information. The quickest and easiest way to get the accurate tonnage for your home’s air conditioning is to consult an HVAC professional. The great news is, we can help! Call LA Construction, Heating and Air and schedule a free consultation with our estimator or. Give us a call to schedule today or contact us online!

HVAC Tonnage Related Posts:

Our Services

Air Conditioning Installation

For AC installation, our certified team ensures a professional and seamless AC replacement process. We perform a detailed load calculation to select the perfect AC unit for maximum energy efficiency. We handle everything from ductless mini-split systems to full HVAC system installation, guaranteeing a quality AC installation service that keeps you cool and saves you money. Learn more

two air conditioning units near los angeles
Technician talking to customer about ac

Heating Installation

We provide expert heating installation and furnace replacement services. Our certified technicians perform a thorough load calculation to recommend the best and most energy-efficient furnace installation. We manage every detail of your new heating system installation, from start to finish, to deliver a high-quality, reliable, and professional heating installation service.
Learn more

Air Conditioning Repair

At home or at your workplace, there's always the potential for sudden HVAC operating failure and the need for immediate HVAC repair. We'll put you back into the comfort zone ASAP. Our technicians are experienced, EPA certified, trained, background checked, drug tested, Workers' Compensation insured, uniformed, professional, and honest. They will diagnose your system and provide you with a written estimate for repairs.

Technician working with gauges near condenser
Person working on indoor ac unit

Heating Repair

When your heating fails, our team provides prompt and professional heating repair and furnace repair. We are experts at diagnosing and fixing a wide range of issues. We offer fast emergency heating repair to minimize your business's downtime, delivering reliable heating service that ensures your system runs safely and efficiently all winter. Learn more

Air Quality

Whether you're at home or at work, your health and comfort can be affected by poor air quality. And, the air quality is affected by the air temperature, the humidity, the quality of ventilation and any contaminants or irritants like indoor pets, pollen, dust mites, cleaning products, lead, Formaldehyde and Asbestos, Poor Air Flow, mildew and mold. Poor air quality can cause more than slight discomfort - much more!

Picture of zipper opening up on Los Angeles
HVAC Technician working on a unit on rooftop

Maintenance

As Benjamin Franklin said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Same idea applies to your central heater and air conditioner maintenance.Think of it as an oil change for your auto, which improves your car's engine performance, maximizes your gas millage and minimized down time by avoiding unnecessary repairs.

What our clients say

Shape- Social Media IconShape BG CTA

New In Our Blog

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

2025 Los Angeles Heat Pump Rebates

Los Angeles homeowners can save thousands on heat pump installations with rebates from LADWP, federal tax credits, and incentives from TECH Clean California. Learn how these programs can dramatically lower your upfront costs, boost home efficiency, and contribute to a greener future.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

What to Look for When Choosing a New HVAC System

Choosing a new HVAC system is a significant investment that requires careful consideration of your specific needs, from the size of your space to your budget and energy efficiency goals. The key to a successful project is not only selecting the right system type and features but also hiring a qualified, professional contractor in Los Angeles for proper and safe installation.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

Attic Fan Installation for Los Angeles Homes

Boost comfort in your Los Angeles home with attic fan installation. Discover how attic ventilation improves AC efficiency, protects your home, and keeps it cooler—especially when paired with a new AC installation.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

BWP Heat Pump Rebates & Installation in Burbank | Save Now

Learn how BWP heat pump rebates can lower your AC replacement costs. Maximize heat pump savings—contact LA Construction, Heating and Air for a free estimate.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

Air Conditioning Service for Los Angeles

Need air conditioning service in Los Angeles? LA Construction, Heating and Air provides expert AC maintenance, repair, and installation to keep your home or business perfectly cool.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

Commercial AC Repair: Recognizing the Red Flags in Your LA Business

Don't let a failing commercial AC disrupt your Los Angeles business. This guide helps you identify critical signs of trouble, from weak airflow to rising energy costs, ensuring timely commercial AC repair or installation.

We Install and Service All Major Makes and Models