We use a conversion factor of 3.5168 kW/Ton of cooling. The theory is below.

  1. Fact: 1 kWh = 3412.142 BTU
  2. Fact: 1 Ton of cooling capacity = 12,000 BTU/h

Therefore, 1 Ton of cooling = (12,000 BTU/h)*(1 kWh)/(3412.142 BTU) = 3.5168 kW.

So if you want to figure out how many Tons of cooling is required for x number of kW of power consumed [or heat generated], simply divide the total kW by 3.5168. Keep in mind these are theoretical [perfect conditions] used for approximate designs; apply some sensible margins for error.