In this blog post I will walk you through what this code means and how you can use it to determine the approximate size of your unit, and some of the features it might have.
The model number is stamped on the back of the unit is usually a code that suggests the approximate size of the unit and information about its features.
How to determine AC tonnage from model number
After you got the numbers needed, use the table below to determine the tonnage of your AC unit.
| 18 | 1.5 tons |
| 24 | 2 tons |
| 30 | 2.5 tons |
| 36 | 3 tons |
| 42 | 3.5 tons |
| 48 | 4 tons |
| 60 | 5 tons |
What is AC tonnage?
Heating and cooling a house have the same purpose – to maintain a comfortable temperature. This makes an air conditioner tonnage important to consider because it measures how much air the air conditioner can cool in one day.
In the United States, cooling standards are measured in tons. One ton of AC tonnage is roughly equivalent to 12,000 BTUs per hour. Air conditioner tonnage is measured in short tons (2,000 pounds).
So, an air conditioner that is 9000 BTUs will cool the same amount of space as an AC unit with a tonnage of .5 tons.
Why is AC tonnage important?
Air conditioner tonnage is important because the higher the number, the more cooling power it has and the more power it takes to run the unit. In general, an air conditioner with a higher tonnage is more efficient than one with a lower tonnage.
– The amount of AC Tonnages needed for a specific home is dependent on the size of the home, where it is located (e.g. hot climate vs. cold climate), and how much insulation the home has.
– In general, an air conditioner with a higher tonnage is more efficient than one with a lower tonnage.
How to find AC tonnage
Look for the label
Air conditioner tonnage can be found on a data plaque mounted to the side of the unit. If you are not sure, it can be found in the sales contract.
You should be looking for the model number which is sometimes represented as “M/N”
On the data plaque, it will be labeled as the tonnage R-value. The tonnage is the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. The higher the number, the larger the unit. The units are rated in tons and a ton is equal to 12,000 BTUs.
The digits you need are just past the 4-5 characters of the model number
Some air conditioners will give you the tonnage rating after 4 characters but most of the time it is after 5 characters of the model number.
Is there a difference on tonnage on outdoor unit and indoor units?
There’s no significant difference on tonnage for indoor and outdoor ac units. They are similar equipment and just different on what environment they are designed to be installed.