HVAC Load Calculator
Cooling load in BTU and tons.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Cooling load
- 48,918 BTU/h
- Tons of cooling
- 4.08
- Kilowatts
- 14.34
- Recommended unit
- 4.5 ton
Quick answer
Cooling load combines building fabric gains with heat from people, lights and equipment.
BTU/h = area × factor + people × 600 + equipment
How to use the HVAC Load Calculator
- 1Enter the conditioned floor area.
- 2Adjust the load factor for your climate and insulation.
- 3Add occupants, glazing and equipment.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Floor area1600 ft²
- Base load factor22 BTU/ft²
- Occupants6
- Sun-facing windows5
- Equipment load1500 W
Results
- Cooling load48,918 BTU/h
- Tons of cooling4.08
- Kilowatts14.34
- Recommended unit4.5 ton
Frequently asked questions
Is bigger always better?
No — oversized units short-cycle and fail to dehumidify.
Is this a Manual J?
No, it is a screening estimate; specify from a full Manual J load.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.