Ductwork CFM Calculator

CFM (cubic feet per minute) = BTU/hr × 0.07. Used for sizing ducts.

Inputs

Result

CFM needed
1,680
4.20 tons (cooling).
  • BTU/hr24,000
  • Rule0.07 CFM/BTU
  • CFM1,680
  • Tons2.00
  • Round-trunk size (10"-12" typical)~10-12" round, 8×16 or 10×20 rectangular

Step-by-step

  1. CFM = 24,000 × 0.07 = 1,680 CFM.

How to use this calculator

  • Enter system BTU/hr.
  • Pick the appropriate rule.
  • Read CFM, then size ducts via Manual D.

About this calculator

CFM (cubic feet per minute) is the air-flow rate through a duct. Cooling: 400 CFM per ton (or 0.07 CFM/BTU). Heating: 0.06 CFM/BTU. Tight homes with low air-change rates may use 0.10. Trunk and branch duct sizes follow Manual D — this calculator gives the headline CFM number you need to size for.

Frequently asked

Standard ASHRAE design assumption for typical US cooling loads. Yields 12-15°F supply-air temperature differential.

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