How do you calculate the condensate produced by a cooling system?

To calculate the condensate produced by a cooling system, the correct method involves understanding the relationship between the cooling capacity of the system (measured in BTUs) and the amount of moisture that is removed from the air. The formula used for this calculation is Condensate = BTUs / 2,400.

The figure of 2,400 represents the number of BTUs needed to remove one gallon of water. Therefore, by dividing the total BTUs of cooling provided by the system by 2,400, you can determine the total gallons of condensate produced. This division effectively converts the cooling energy used into a tangible measurement of water removed from the air, which is a critical aspect of managing humidity in HVAC systems.

Using this formula ensures that HVAC technicians can accurately predict how much condensate will be produced and manage drainage accordingly. This is essential for maintaining comfort levels and preventing potential issues with excess water in the system.