WHY 400 CFM PER TON?

If you are getting a new air conditioner, you may have heard that the rule of thumb is 400 CFM (cubic feet per minute) of airflow per ton of cooling capacity. But why is this number important? And how do you calculate it for your own home?

1. What is CFM?

CFM is a measure of how much air is flowing through a system. In the context of air conditioning, CFM is the amount of air that the air conditioner can circulate through the ductwork and into your home.

2. Why is CFM Important?

CFM is important because it affects the efficiency and effectiveness of your air conditioner. If you have too little CFM, the air conditioner will not be able to circulate enough air to cool your home properly. This can lead to hot spots, high humidity levels, and increased energy bills.

On the other hand, if you have too much CFM, the air conditioner will be working too hard and using more energy than necessary. This can also lead to premature wear and tear on the equipment.

3. How to Calculate CFM

The formula for calculating CFM is: CFM = Airflow (in cubic feet per minute) ÷ Tons of Cooling Capacity

For example, if you have a 3-ton air conditioner, you would need 3 × 400 = 1200 CFM.

4. How to Choose the Right CFM for Your Home

The CFM that you need for your home will depend on a number of factors, including:

• The size of your home

• The number of rooms in your home

• The layout of your home

• The climate in your area

• The type of air conditioner you have

It is important to consult with a qualified HVAC contractor to determine the right CFM for your home.

5. Benefits of 400 CFM per Ton

There are a number of benefits to having 400 CFM per ton of cooling capacity, including:

• Improved cooling efficiency and effectiveness

• Reduced energy bills

• Increased comfort levels

• Reduced humidity levels

• Longer equipment life

Conclusion

The rule of thumb of 400 CFM per ton of cooling capacity is a good starting point for determining the right CFM for your home. However, it is important to consult with a qualified HVAC contractor to determine the right CFM for your specific needs.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between CFM and air volume?

CFM is a measure of how much air is flowing through a system, while air volume is a measure of the total amount of air in a space.

2. How do I know if I have enough CFM?

You can check the CFM of your air conditioner by looking at the manufacturer's specifications. You can also have a qualified HVAC contractor perform a CFM test.

3. What are the signs of too little CFM?

Signs of too little CFM include hot spots, high humidity levels, and increased energy bills.

4. What are the signs of too much CFM?

Signs of too much CFM include drafts, noise, and premature wear and tear on the equipment.

5. How can I improve the CFM of my air conditioner?

You can improve the CFM of your air conditioner by:

• Making sure that the ducts are properly sized and installed
• Cleaning the air filter regularly
• Having the air conditioner serviced annually