What is a “ton” and how is it used to define air conditioning capacity?
• What is COP? • What is relative humidity? 1. What is a BTU? A British Thermal Unit (BTU) is defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. It is approximately the amount of heat that a lit match will generate. 2. What is the Difference Between EER and SEER? EER (energy efficiency ratio) is a measure of how efficiently a cooling system will operate when the outdoor temperature is at a specific level (usually 95 F). A higher EER means the system is more efficient. You can figure out kW if you know EER and tons. EER = BTUs of Cooling @ 95 F / Watts used @ 95 F In the case of a 10 EER, 2 ton air conditioner: 10 EER = 24,000 BTUs Out / 2,400 Watts In For the same size unit, but rated at 12 EER: 12 EER = 24,000 BTUs Out / 2,000 Watts In or 20% more efficient. If you want to calculate kWh, just multiply the “Watts In” by the number of hours that the air conditioning is running. If you’d like to convert watts to kWh, simply divide
