Conversions

Instant, private, and free

Refrigeration Tons to Watts Converter.

Convert refrigeration capacity in tons of refrigeration to watts for HVAC sizing.

On-device calculationNo signup
01

Set your values

Results update as you type.

Watts (W): 3,516.85284204

Watts (W)

0.0000000000

One refrigeration ton is 12,000 International Table Btu/h = 3,516.85284204 W.

FAQs

How does the refrigeration tons to watts converter work?

One refrigeration ton is 12,000 International Table Btu/h = 3,516.85284204 W.

Use Cases

HVAC System Sizing

Convert cooling capacity from tons to watts to determine electrical load requirements for air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Example: A 10-ton AC unit converts to about 35,168 watts.

Energy Consumption Estimation

Use the watt equivalent to estimate power consumption and energy costs for refrigeration equipment.

Example: Convert 3 tons to watts to calculate monthly electricity usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a ton of refrigeration?
A ton of refrigeration (TR) is a unit of cooling capacity. It represents the amount of heat required to melt one ton (2000 lbs) of ice in 24 hours, equivalent to 12,000 BTU per hour or about 3.517 kilowatts.
How do I convert tons of refrigeration to watts?
To convert tons of refrigeration to watts, multiply the number of tons by 3,516.85284. For example, 5 tons is approximately 17,584 watts. This converter does that calculation instantly.
Why is this conversion important for HVAC sizing?
HVAC systems are often rated in tons of refrigeration, but electrical power and heat load calculations may require watts. Converting ensures proper sizing of electrical components, wiring, and power supply for cooling equipment.

Tips & Common Mistakes

Tips

  • Ensure you enter the value in tons of refrigeration, not BTU/hr or other units.
  • Remember that 1 ton of refrigeration equals approximately 3.517 kilowatts (3517 watts).
  • Use the result for preliminary sizing; consult a professional for final system design.
  • Double-check your input for decimal points to avoid rounding errors in large values.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Confusing tons of refrigeration with actual weight tons; this converter uses the refrigeration ton definition.
  • Forgetting to multiply by 3,516.85284 and using a rough estimate like 3,500, which can cause significant errors in large systems.
  • Using the converter for heat pump or heating capacity, which may have different conversion factors.

Last updated: August 13, 2026