True or False: 1 ton of refrigeration is equal to 200 BTU/min?

• A. True
• B. False

Answer: (A)

The statement is false. One ton of refrigeration is actually equal to 12,000 BTU/hr, which translates to 200 BTU/min when calculated appropriately.

To clarify, one ton of refrigeration is traditionally defined as the amount of heat required to melt one ton (2,000 pounds) of ice at 32 degrees Fahrenheit over the course of 24 hours. This is where the figure of 12,000 BTU/hr originates since 12,000 BTU divided by 60 minutes gives 200 BTU/min.

Understanding this conversion is vital for HVAC professionals, as it helps in calculating the required cooling capacity for systems based on different load conditions effectively. This kind of knowledge ensures that contractors can accurately size equipment for residential and commercial applications.