How many CFM should be provided per ton of cooling?

The standard for determining airflow in HVAC systems is often set at approximately 400 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) per ton of cooling for air conditioning systems, including heat pumps. This value is based on the principle that to achieve effective cooling, a certain volume of air must pass over the evaporator coil in order to absorb the heat being removed from the indoor space.

At 400 CFM per ton, the system can adequately distribute the cool air throughout the space while maintaining efficiency and comfort. This airflow rate ensures that the cooling capacity is matched with the proper amount of airflow, facilitating effective temperature control and humidity removal. Too little airflow can lead to inadequate cooling, while too much airflow may cause increased energy costs and discomfort.

In real-world applications, certain variables such as duct design, desired comfort levels, and specific system characteristics might adjust the required CFM slightly, but 400 CFM is widely accepted as a baseline that supports optimal performance in most residential cooling applications.