Ton to kW Converter
Convert refrigeration tons to kilowatts (kW) with our free online converter. Uses standard HVAC formula 1 ton = 3.517 kW. Instant results with charts.
About This Calculator
The Ton to kW Converter instantly converts refrigeration tons to kilowatts (kW) using the standard HVAC conversion factor. This tool is essential for HVAC engineers, technicians, architects, and anyone working with cooling systems who needs to compare or convert between the two common units of cooling capacity.
One ton of refrigeration is defined as the cooling capacity required to melt one ton of ice over 24 hours. This equals 12,000 BTU/hr or 3.5168525 kW. The formula is simple: Power (kW) = Tons of Refrigeration × 3.517. To convert in reverse, divide the kW value by 3.517.
The converter also displays the power in watts (W) and BTU per hour, giving you a complete picture of the cooling capacity across commonly used units. All results are rounded to 2 decimal places for practical use.
Common Applications
Tons of refrigeration is widely used in North America and parts of Asia for sizing air conditioners, refrigerators, chillers, and industrial cooling systems. Kilowatts are the standard metric unit used globally for electrical power ratings. This converter helps bridge the two systems.
Conversion Reference
- 1 ton = 3.517 kW = 3,517 W = 12,000 BTU/hr
- 2 tons = 7.034 kW = 7,034 W = 24,000 BTU/hr
- 3 tons = 10.551 kW = 10,551 W = 36,000 BTU/hr
- 5 tons = 17.585 kW = 17,585 W = 60,000 BTU/hr
Frequently Asked Questions
How many kW is 1 ton of refrigeration?
1 ton of refrigeration is equal to 3.5168525 kilowatts (kW), commonly rounded to 3.517 kW. This conversion factor is based on the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice over 24 hours.
How do you convert tons to kW?
To convert tons of refrigeration to kW, multiply the tonnage by 3.517. For example, 5 tons × 3.517 = 17.585 kW. This formula applies to all HVAC cooling capacity conversions.
Is a refrigeration ton the same as a metric ton?
No. A refrigeration ton is a unit of cooling capacity based on ice melting, while a metric ton is a unit of mass equal to 1,000 kg. They measure entirely different quantities.
What is a ton of refrigeration used for?
Tons of refrigeration is the standard unit for measuring cooling capacity of air conditioners, refrigerators, chillers, and HVAC systems, especially in North America and parts of Asia.
How many BTU/hr is 1 ton of refrigeration?
1 ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU/hr. This relationship comes from the definition that 1 ton of cooling removes 12,000 BTU of heat per hour.
Can I convert kW back to tons of refrigeration?
Yes, to convert kW back to tons of refrigeration, divide the power value in kW by 3.517. For example, 10 kW / 3.517 = 2.84 tons of refrigeration.
Is the Ton to kW Converter free to use?
Yes, this converter is completely free to use with no registration required. You can also save and share your calculations via the URL.
What is the difference between refrigeration ton and cooling ton?
Refrigeration ton and cooling ton are the same unit. Both refer to the standard HVAC ton, defined as the cooling capacity equivalent to melting one ton of ice in 24 hours (12,000 BTU/hr or 3.517 kW).