What is the general CFM of air required through the evaporator for each ton of air conditioning?

The general rule for the airflow required through the evaporator for each ton of air conditioning is approximately 400 CFM. This figure is based on the principle of heat transfer and the efficiency of the air conditioning system. When an air conditioning system is designed to remove heat from the indoor environment, it must do so by passing a specific volume of air over the evaporator coil.

In practical terms, for each ton of cooling capacity, which is equivalent to 12,000 BTUs per hour, approximately 400 CFM of air is needed to effectively transfer that amount of heat. This value balances the airflow with the amount of cooling provided, ensuring adequate temperature control and humidity reduction in a typical residential or commercial setting.

Proper airflow is critical for optimal system performance, as insufficient airflow can lead to inadequate cooling, increased humidity levels, and potential strain on the system, which could result in mechanical failures or reduced energy efficiency. Therefore, the 400 CFM figure is commonly used in HVAC design and calculations, making it the standard reference point in the industry.