Ton to kW Converter

Refrigeration Tons to Kilowatts

A refrigeration ton (RT) is a unit of cooling power equal to the heat removed by melting one short ton of ice in 24 hours. In SI units, one ton of refrigeration equals exactly 3.5168525 kilowatts.

Conversion Formulas

$$P_{\mathrm{kW}} = \mathrm{tons} \times 3.5168525$$ $$P_{\mathrm{W}} = P_{\mathrm{kW}} \times 1000$$

To convert kilowatts back to tons, divide by 3.5168525. HVAC engineers use tons for chiller and air-handler capacity, while electrical load calculations require kilowatts or watts.

Practical Example

A 10-ton rooftop unit removes heat at a rate of about 35.17 kW. When sizing electrical feeders, multiply by the compressor power factor and motor efficiency for the actual circuit load.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a refrigeration ton?

A refrigeration ton equals 12,000 BTU per hour, or 3.5168525 kW. It describes cooling capacity, not weight.

How many watts are in one ton of cooling?

One refrigeration ton equals 3,516.8525 watts. Multiply tons by 3,516.8525 to get watts directly.

Is a ton of cooling the same as a ton of weight?

No. The refrigeration ton is a historical unit based on ice-melting rate. It has no connection to the mass unit called a ton.

When do I need kW instead of tons?

Use kilowatts for electrical load calculations, energy billing, and comparing cooling output to heating or power generation. Tons are common on HVAC equipment nameplates.

Can I convert BTU/h to kW with this tool?

First divide BTU/h by 12,000 to get refrigeration tons, then use this converter. Alternatively, divide BTU/h by 3,412.14 for a direct kW value.

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Ton to kW Converter

Refrigeration Tons to Kilowatts

Conversion Formulas

Practical Example

Frequently Asked Questions

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