Chiller Tons to CFM Calculator
Air handler airflow for a chiller load.
Enter your values
Enter the cooling load in tons.
Enter the cfm per ton in CFM/ton.
Enter the chilled water delta t in °F.
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.
- Air handler airflow
- 20,000 CFM
- Chilled water flow
- 120 gpm
- Load in BTU/h
- 600,000
- Load in kW
- 175.8
- Pipe size at 6 ft/s
- 2.9 in dia
Quick answer
Air handler airflow for chilled water coils is typically 350-400 CFM per ton of cooling.
CFM = tons x 400; gpm = tons x 2.4
At a glance
| What it does | Air handler airflow for a chiller load. |
|---|---|
| Category | HVAC & Airflow |
| Inputs needed | Cooling load, CFM per ton, Chilled water delta T |
| Main output | Air handler airflow |
| Formula | CFM = tons x 400; gpm = tons x 2.4 |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Chiller Tons to CFM Calculator
- 1Enter the chiller load in tons.
- 2Use 400 CFM per ton for comfort cooling, 350 for humid climates.
- 3Set the chilled water delta T — larger delta T means smaller pumps and pipes.
Inputs explained
- Cooling load(tons)
- Enter the cooling load in tons.
- CFM per ton(CFM/ton)
- Enter the cfm per ton in CFM/ton.
- Chilled water delta T(°F)
- Enter the chilled water delta t in °F.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Cooling load50 tons
- CFM per ton400 CFM/ton
- Chilled water delta T10 °F
Results
- Air handler airflow20,000 CFM
- Chilled water flow120 gpm
- Load in BTU/h600,000
- Load in kW175.8
- Pipe size at 6 ft/s2.9 in dia
Frequently asked questions
Why lower CFM in humid climates?
Slower air across the coil gets colder and removes more moisture.
Typical delta T?
10°F is traditional; 12-16°F designs cut pumping energy substantially.
What do I need to enter into the Chiller Tons to CFM Calculator?
Just 3 values: cooling load, cfm per ton, chilled water delta t. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.
How does the Chiller Tons to CFM Calculator work out the answer?
Air handler airflow for chilled water coils is typically 350-400 CFM per ton of cooling. It applies the formula CFM = tons x 400; gpm = tons x 2.4 and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Chiller Tons to CFM Calculator free, and do I need an account?
It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.