Hey folks, Jake Lawson here—your straight-talking HVAC guy. Whether you're running a growing business, managing a retail space, or just trying to keep your employees and customers comfortable during peak summer heat, the right-sized air conditioner matters.
I get asked all the time:
“Should I go with a 3 ton commercial AC unit or invest in a 5 ton commercial AC system?”
Let’s settle the debate.
What Does “Ton” Really Mean in AC?
In HVAC terms, a "ton" doesn’t refer to weight—it’s a measurement of cooling capacity. One ton equals 12,000 BTUs per hour. So:
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A 3 ton commercial AC unit delivers about 36,000 BTU/hr
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A 5 ton commercial AC delivers about 60,000 BTU/hr
This cooling power translates directly into how much square footage your system can handle. For example, in a reasonably insulated building, a 3 ton unit covers around 1,200–1,800 square feet, while a 5 ton system handles 2,500–3,500 square feet.
That’s a big jump—and not one you want to guess at.
If you’re unsure how much tonnage you need, check out Energy.gov's HVAC sizing guide to see why a “bigger is better” mindset could cost you thousands.
When Does a 5 Ton Commercial AC Unit Make Sense?
You’ll want to go with a 5 ton commercial AC unit if you’ve got:
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A large open-concept space (think gyms, restaurants, retail shops)
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High ceilings or lots of windows, which increase heat load
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Heavy internal heat gain from lighting, appliances, or machinery
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Multiple zones that demand simultaneous cooling
In those cases, a 5 ton system doesn’t just cool more—it keeps humidity in check, recovers faster after door traffic spikes, and balances airflow better across larger ducts.
Plus, many 5 ton systems, like those from Daikin or Carrier, are designed for three-phase commercial electrical setups, which are more energy-efficient for businesses running 24/7.
Curious about the tech behind these systems? Dive into Carrier’s commercial AC lineup to see how advanced 5-ton solutions are built for serious business.
Why You Might Stick With a 3 Ton Commercial AC Unit
If your space is smaller or more energy-efficient, a 3 ton commercial AC unit might be a smarter, more economical choice.
A few good fits for 3 ton units:
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Small businesses, clinics, or storefronts under 2,000 square feet
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Office suites with good insulation and energy-efficient windows
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Server rooms or kitchens with dedicated ventilation
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Residential/light-commercial crossover projects
Don’t make the mistake of upsizing when you don’t need to. Oversized systems short cycle—that means they turn on and off rapidly, wearing out components faster and failing to control humidity. You’ll spend more upfront and on utilities… for worse comfort.
For more insight, check out this breakdown from Energy Vanguard, which explains why oversizing can lead to equipment failure and increased energy bills.
Comparing Costs: 3 Ton vs. 5 Ton Systems
Here’s a ballpark cost comparison (installed):
| System Size | Equipment Cost | Total Installed Cost | Operating Cost (Yearly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Ton | $2,200–$3,800 | $4,500–$7,500 | $700–$1,100 |
| 5 Ton | $3,200–$5,800 | $6,500–$11,500 | $1,100–$1,800 |
A 5 ton system isn’t just more expensive to install—it’s pricier to run and maintain. And if it’s not properly sized for your building’s load, those extra costs won’t deliver any benefit.
If you’re price-conscious but still want power and modern refrigerants, check out the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle. It’s a solid match for light commercial spaces and comes backed by Goodman’s strong warranty support.
R-32: The Future of Refrigerant
Most commercial AC units today use either R-410A or R-32 refrigerants. The industry is trending toward R-32 because of its lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), better heat transfer, and greater efficiency.
Here’s the deal:
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R-32 is up to 10% more efficient than R-410A
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It has 1/3 the GWP of older refrigerants
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R-32 systems run at lower charge levels—less refrigerant, same output
If you're retrofitting an older system or shopping new, make sure you're choosing equipment that uses R-32 or is R-32 ready. The EPA is tightening refrigerant regulations, and R-410A is being phased out.
Need proof? Read up on Daikin’s refrigerant leadership to see why they were the first major manufacturer to commit to R-32 globally.
Commercial Install Considerations
Whether you’re installing a 3 ton or a 5 ton system, installation quality matters more than the brand.
Here’s what to ask your contractor:
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Are they doing a Manual J load calculation for sizing?
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Do they handle refrigerant recovery and proper charging?
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Will the ductwork support the higher airflow of a 5 ton system?
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Are they licensed and insured for commercial HVAC work?
A poor install will cripple even the best unit. Sizing, airflow, charge, and zoning all play a role in performance and lifespan.
For those of you running larger facilities, take a look at this helpful guide on HVAC load calculations, published byHVAC.com.
Final Thoughts from Jake
If you're trying to choose between a 3 ton commercial AC unit and a 5 ton commercial AC, it all comes down to matching the system to the space—not just square footage, but layout, load, and usage.
To recap:
✅ Choose 3 ton for small offices, boutique shops, and single zones under 2,000 ft²
✅ Choose 5 ton for larger, open areas with high ceilings or multiple cooling zones
✅ Don’t oversize—it can cost more, underperform, and wear out faster
✅ Use R-32-based systems to stay ahead of EPA refrigerant changes
✅ Always get a licensed pro to do the install, and ask for a Manual J calculation
Need help finding the right unit? Or want an honest take before you sign off on a quote? Jake Lawson’s always just a few clicks away. Until next time—keep your cool. 🔧
