Understanding the Discrepancy in Horsepower Ratings for Air Conditioning Units

In summary, the conversation discussed the discrepancy between the listed horsepower and cooling output of air conditioners by manufacturers like Carrier and Panasonic. Despite the conversion rate of 1 ton refrigeration being equivalent to 4.7 horsepower, the manufacturers listed their 1.5 horsepower aircon as having 13,000 KJ/hour, which is equivalent to 1 ton. This raised questions about the accuracy of the listed horsepower and the possibility of using watts as a cooling output. However, it was clarified that the input mechanical work and power can be measured in various units and does not violate the law of conservation of energy.
  • #1
riezer
58
0
A manufacturer like Carrier or Panasonic listed their 1 Horsepower Aircon as having 9,500 KJ/h and 1.5 Horsepower Aircon as 13,000 KJ/h. But it doesn't tally with the BTU conversion.

1 ton refrigeration = 12000 Btu/Hour = 12,661 kJ/Hour = 3.517 kW

now 1 watt = 0.00134102209 horsepower therefore 3.517 kW = 4.7 Horsepower!

But the Carrier/Panasonic manufacturer listed 1.5 Horsepower Aircon has having 13,000 KJ/hour which is equivalent to 12000 Btu/Hour or 1 ton. Yet calculation of this data show 4.7 Horsepower. Why did Carrier/Panasonic, etc. listed them as 1.5 Horsepower Aircon?

I've been searching in net for this for hours but can't find the reason. Anyone got any idea why?
 
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  • #2
1.5 hp is the input mechanical work, not the cooling output.
 
  • #4
russ_watters said:
1.5 hp is the input mechanical work, not the cooling output.

You mean 3517 Watts (equivalent to 4.7 Hp) is the cooling output? Can you use watts as cooling output (the input being 1.5 hp as you mentioned)?
 
  • #5
Yep. And power is power - you can use watts, horsepower, btu/hr, tons etc.
 
  • #6
If the input is 1.5 HP (1200 watts) and the output is 4.7 HP (3517 watts). Doesn't it violate law of conservation of energy because the output is greater than the input?
 
  • #7
No. The input electrical energy isn't the only energy input. Please read Chris's link...
 

What is the difference between aircon horsepower and regular horsepower?

Aircon horsepower refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning unit, while regular horsepower is a measure of mechanical power. They are not directly comparable as they measure different things.

How much aircon horsepower do I need for my room?

The amount of aircon horsepower needed for a room depends on various factors such as the size of the room, insulation, and climate. As a general rule, a room of 100 square feet would require 1 ton or 12,000 BTUs of cooling power.

What is the difference between BTU and horsepower?

BTU (British Thermal Unit) is a measure of energy, specifically the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Horsepower, on the other hand, is a measure of power or the rate at which work is done. They are not directly related.

Why is there a confusion between aircon horsepower and regular horsepower?

The confusion between aircon horsepower and regular horsepower is because both terms use the same unit of measurement, "horsepower". However, they measure different things and are not directly comparable.

How can I convert aircon horsepower to regular horsepower?

There is no direct conversion between aircon horsepower and regular horsepower as they measure different things. However, some manufacturers may provide a conversion chart or formula for their specific units. It is best to consult the manufacturer's specifications for accurate conversion.

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