Hey folks, Mike Sanders here. When it comes to commercial cooling, size really matters. Picking the right air conditioner isn’t just about the upfront price — it’s about making sure your system can handle the heat load without wasting energy or shortchanging comfort.
Today, I’m diving deep into two of the most common commercial air conditioning sizes on the market: the 3 ton commercial AC unit and the 5 ton commercial AC unit. I’ll break down their specs, typical applications, pros and cons, and what to consider before you buy.
If you want to see a great example of a well-balanced system in the residential-to-light commercial space, check out the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 System Bundle—I’ll only mention it once, I promise.
What Does “Ton” Mean in Commercial AC?
First off, let’s clear up the terminology. When you hear “3 ton” or “5 ton” in AC, it’s not about the weight—it’s a measure of cooling capacity. One ton equals the ability to cool 12,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour. So:
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A 3 ton commercial AC unit cools roughly 36,000 BTUs/hour.
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A 5 ton commercial AC unit cools about 60,000 BTUs/hour.
This number tells you roughly how much space the unit can cool effectively.
When to Choose a 3 Ton Commercial AC Unit
The 3 ton commercial AC is a solid option for smaller commercial spaces—think boutique shops, small offices, server rooms, or compact restaurants. Generally, these units are best for spaces up to around 1,500–2,000 square feet, though your actual needs will depend on factors like insulation, window sizes, and local climate.
Technically, a 3 ton unit typically runs on 208/230 volts, three-phase power, and offers SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ranging from 13 to 15. That’s a good balance of efficiency and affordability.
For a deeper dive into 3 ton units, HVAC Direct offers a solid resource on Daikin’s 3 Ton 15 SEER Packaged Air Conditioner that explains specs and ideal applications.
If you’re running a smaller commercial site, a 3 ton unit is often the sweet spot between cooling power and energy use. Just be sure to get a professional Manual J load calculation to confirm sizing.
What About the 5 Ton Commercial AC Unit?
Now, when you’re looking at larger commercial spaces—like restaurants with kitchens, retail stores over 2,000 square feet, or office suites with multiple rooms—you’re probably going to want a 5 ton commercial AC unit.
These larger units crank out about 60,000 BTUs/hour and generally come with slightly higher SEER ratings, from 14 up to 18 on newer models. This means better energy efficiency for bigger spaces, which can add up to big savings on your commercial energy bills.
If you’re curious about the specs and benefits of a 5 ton unit, Carrier’s guide on their 5 Ton AC Units breaks down the technology, sizing, and options very clearly.
It’s important to note: installing a 5 ton unit is a bit more involved. You’ll need to make sure your electrical service can handle it, and the installation may require modifications to your ductwork or even permits.
Pros and Cons: 3 Ton vs 5 Ton Commercial AC
Let’s look at a quick comparison to help you weigh your options:
| Feature | 3 Ton Commercial AC Unit | 5 Ton Commercial AC Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | ~36,000 BTUs/hr | ~60,000 BTUs/hr |
| Ideal Space Size | ~1,500–2,000 sq ft | ~2,000–3,000+ sq ft |
| Typical SEER | 13–15 | 14–18 |
| Electrical Requirements | 208/230V, 3-phase | 208/230V, 3-phase |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate | Higher (may require upgrades) |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
For more detailed pros and cons, Quality Home Air Care has a great write-up on the advantages and limitations of 5 ton systems that applies to commercial setups as well.
Installation & Maintenance Tips
No matter which size you go with, proper installation is critical. A poorly installed unit will underperform and cost you more over time in repairs and wasted energy.
Here’s what I recommend:
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Always use a certified HVAC professional experienced with commercial systems.
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Make sure a Manual J load calculation is done—this isn’t guesswork.
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Consider the refrigerant type—newer R-410A and especially R-32 systems offer better efficiency and lower environmental impact.
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Don’t skimp on maintenance. Regular filter changes, coil cleaning, and system inspections are a must.
To see how professionals handle installation and service, check out HVACDirect’s Daikin 5 Ton Condenser page—they explain common setup details and maintenance advice for larger units.
Why the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle Stands Out
Now, before I sign off, I want to quickly highlight a system that I think really balances performance, efficiency, and cost in the residential-to-light commercial range: the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle.
This system uses the newer R-32 refrigerant for better cooling and less environmental impact. It also hits that sweet spot for efficiency and has the backing of a strong warranty. For commercial spaces on the smaller side, it’s a very smart pick that can save you money over the long haul.
Final Thoughts from Mike
Choosing between a 3 ton and 5 ton commercial AC unit boils down to matching your cooling needs with the right capacity and efficiency. Oversizing wastes money; undersizing wastes comfort.
If you’re running a smaller space, the 3 ton unit is your go-to. If you’re heating and cooling a bigger commercial footprint, the 5 ton is the way to go, as long as you’re ready for the installation and electrical requirements.
Always work with pros who understand commercial HVAC, get your calculations right, and consider future growth when buying.
And remember: a good system like the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle is an excellent baseline for quality and efficiency.
Stay cool out there.
—Mike Sanders
