Chiller plants are sized in tons and their efficiency is quoted in kW per ton. Converting tells you both the cooling power and how much electricity the system draws.
How to use the Tons to kW Converter
- Capacity (refrigeration tons)
- Coefficient of performance (COP)
Results update as you type, every field has its own unit menu, and everything is calculated in your browser.
How it works
Enter the capacity in tons and the efficiency as COP.
Tips
- Use absolute temperature (K) in gas laws and efficiency formulas.
- Temperature differences are the same in K and °C.
- Heat = mass × specific heat × temperature change when no phase change occurs.
- Phase changes need latent heat at a constant temperature.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using °C in pV = nRT.
- Forgetting latent heat during melting or boiling.
- Confusing heat capacity (J/K) with specific heat (J/(kg·K)).
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Capacity (refrigeration tons) | A number |
| Coefficient of performance (COP) | A number |
What each result means
- Cooling capacity = [Capacity (refrigeration tons)]×3.51685284
- In BTU/h = [Capacity (refrigeration tons)]×12000
- Electrical input = [Capacity (refrigeration tons)]×3.51685284÷[Coefficient of performance (COP)]
- Efficiency in kW/ton = 3.51685284÷[Coefficient of performance (COP)]
Example values
How the main result changes when Capacity changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Capacity (refrigeration tons) | Cooling capacity (kW) |
|---|---|
| 5 | 17.5843 |
| 7.5 | 26.3764 |
| 10 | 35.1685 |
| 12.5 | 43.9607 |
| 15 | 52.7528 |
| 20 | 70.3371 |
Formula
1 TR = 3.51685 kW_th, electrical input = TR × (kW/ton) = cooling/COPWorked example
Inputs — Capacity (refrigeration tons): 10; Coefficient of performance (COP): 3.5.
Results — Cooling capacity = 35.16853 kW; In BTU/h = 120,000 BTU/h; Electrical input = 10.04815 kW; Efficiency in kW/ton = 1.0048 kW/ton.
Key terms
- COP
- Cooling output divided by electrical input.
Frequently asked questions
How many kW is 1 ton?
3.517 kW of cooling.
What is a good chiller efficiency?
Below about 0.6 kW/ton (COP above 5.9).
How do COP and kW/ton relate?
kW/ton = 3.517/COP.
Is cooling kW the same as electrical kW?
No – electrical input is cooling divided by COP.
What formula does the Tons to kW Converter use?
1 TR = 3.51685 kW_th, electrical input = TR × (kW/ton) = cooling/COP.