Evaluating the amp draw of a 5 ton AC unit is essential for safe installation, efficient operation, and proper electrical planning. This article examines how many amps a 5 ton air conditioner uses, factors that influence its electrical current, code requirements, and tips for optimizing home or commercial HVAC installations. Homeowners, contractors, and facilities managers will find reliable guidance for managing 5 ton AC units’ energy needs.
| Factor | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cool Capacity | 60,000 BTUs/hr | 1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr |
| Common Voltage | 208-230V | Residential & Light Commercial |
| Typical Amp Draw | 25-35 Amps | Depends on efficiency & model |
| LRA (Locked Rotor Amps) | 80-120 Amps | Motor Start-up Current |
| Circuit Breaker Size | 40-60 Amps | Check unit nameplate |
What Is A 5 Ton AC Unit? Capacity And Common Applications
A 5 ton AC unit refers to an air conditioning system with a cooling capacity of 60,000 BTUs per hour. These robust systems are commonly installed in large homes, commercial offices, retail stores, restaurants, and other spaces up to about 3,500 square feet, depending on insulation and climate.
5 ton air conditioners are usually split-system central ACs or packaged rooftop units, and their electrical requirements are significantly higher than smaller residential systems.
Understanding Amp Draw: What Does “Amp Draw” Mean?
Amp draw is the measurement of how much electrical current an appliance or machine consumes during operation. For AC units, amp draw indicates the current flowing through the unit’s electrical circuit when the compressor, fans, and other components are running.
This value is crucial for determining breaker sizing, wire gauge, and for evaluating total electrical load in a home or business.
Typical Amp Draw Of A 5 Ton Air Conditioning Unit
A modern 5 ton air conditioner typically draws between 25 and 35 amps when running at full load on a 208-230 volt single-phase circuit. Older systems or lower efficiency units might draw toward the higher end of this range or slightly above.
The exact amp draw depends on:
- Unit SEER/EER rating (higher efficiency = lower amps)
- Compressor technology (scroll, rotary, reciprocating, inverter)
- Voltage and phase (single or three phase)
- Climate conditions and running load
For three-phase commercial systems, amp draw per phase may be slightly less due to more efficient power distribution.
Formula For Calculating AC Unit Amp Draw
Basic Calculation:
To estimate the amp draw for a 5 ton (60,000 BTU) AC unit, use this formula:
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- Amps = Watts / Voltage
First, calculate the watts with:
- Watts = BTUs/hour ÷ EER
Example (assuming a 10 EER):
- Watts = 60,000 ÷ 10 = 6,000 watts
- Amps = 6,000 ÷ 240 = 25 amps
Higher EER or SEER ratings reduce the amp draw. Always refer to the unit’s nameplate for precise data, as manufacturer efficiency, real-life conditions, and auxiliary loads (fans, controls) may alter results.
Factors Affecting 5 Ton AC Unit Amp Draw
Efficiency Ratings
Units with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings draw fewer amps due to advanced compressors, variable speed fans, and better heat exchange. Replacing older 10 SEER units with modern 16+ SEER models can reduce amp draw by 25-40%.
Voltage
Residential central ACs run on 208-230V single-phase circuits. A higher supply voltage (230V) slightly lowers amp draw but is minimal compared to overall load changes.
Start-Up Surge (Locked Rotor Amps)
When the compressor kicks on, it can momentarily draw 80-120 amps (locked rotor amps, LRA). This surge lasts only a fraction of a second but is why circuit breakers must accommodate both running amps (RLA) and start-up surges to prevent nuisance tripping.
Ambient Temperature
High outdoor temperatures force compressors to work harder, raising amp draw above rated values during extreme heat. Dirty coils, blocked airflow, and low refrigerant also force the system to draw more ampere.
Compressor Type
Variable-speed (inverter) compressors draw less current than single or two-stage compressors under typical conditions, though initial LRA may still be substantial.
Circuit Breaker And Wire Sizing For 5 Ton AC Units
Proper electrical supply is crucial for safety, reliability, and code compliance. Use the air conditioner’s nameplate rating for maximum amp draw, minimum circuit ampacity (MCA), and maximum overcurrent protection device (MOCP) ratings.
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| Component | Typical Value (For 5 Ton) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Running Load Amps (RLA) | 25-35 Amps | Compressor at full load |
| Locked Rotor Amps (LRA) | 80-120 Amps | Compressor at startup |
| Breaker Size | 40-60 Amps | MCA + 25% |
| Wire Gauge | 6 AWG copper | Typical for 35-50 amp circuits |
Always check local code requirements and the AC manufacturer’s data.
NEC And Local Code Requirements For AC Installation
The National Electrical Code (NEC) sets out requirements for air conditioning circuits regarding ampacity, conductor rating, and overcurrent protection. Article 440 specifically covers “air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment.”
- Minimum Circuit Ampacity (MCA): Wire must handle load + 25% of largest motor (compressor or fan)
- Maximum Overcurrent Protective Device (MOCP): Circuit breaker/fuse must not exceed rating for the AC’s wiring and components
- Disconnect switch: Must be installed within sight of the condenser for safety/service
Some local jurisdictions enforce stricter rules or special requirements for bonding, conduit type, or outdoor cable routing.
How To Find The Amp Draw Of Your 5 Ton AC Unit
Checking The Nameplate Label
Every commercial AC unit includes a data plate (usually inside the condenser panel) that lists:
- Model and serial numbers
- Voltage (V)
- Minimum/maximum circuit ampacity (MCA and MOCP)
- Compressor RLA and LRA
- Fan motor amps
The running load amps (RLA) is the average current when the unit is operating under rated load. Locked rotor amps (LRA) is the maximum for an instant at compressor startup. These ratings inform breaker and wire size selection.
Measuring With An Ammeter
A licensed HVAC technician can use a clamp-on ammeter to directly measure the running amps of the AC’s main power feed with the unit started and operating. This method accounts for real world variables like charge status, coil condition, and power factor.
Peak, Average, And Standby Amp Draw: What To Expect?
| Operating State | Expected Amp Draw |
|---|---|
| Standby (off) | 0.3 – 0.8 Amps (controls/power supply) |
| Fan-only mode | 2 – 5 Amps |
| Cooling (compressor active) | 25 – 35 Amps |
| Compressor starting (LRA) | 80 – 120 Amps (split second) |
The compressor and condenser fan are the primary current draws during cooling. Electric resistance backup heat, if present in heat pump configurations, can add substantial amp load.
Energy Cost And Amp Draw: How Do Amps Affect Electricity Bills?
The higher the amp draw and longer the runtime of a 5 ton AC, the more kilowatt-hours (kWh) are consumed, leading to larger electricity bills. Energy cost calculations for an air conditioner are based on power (watts or kilowatts) and duration, not amps directly, but amperage indicates load on the electrical panel and wiring.
Utility bills in the US can be roughly estimated:
Daily kWh = Amps × Volts × Hours operated ÷ 1000
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Example:
- 30 amps × 230V × 8 hours/day = 55,200 Wh = 55.2 kWh/day
- Monthly (30 days): 1,656 kWh
- With average US electricity cost (~$0.16/kWh): $265/month
Shorter runtimes, higher SEER systems, and correct sizing can reduce operating expenses.
Five Signs Your Electrical Service Needs Upgrading For A 5 Ton AC Unit
- Main panel is less than 150A, causing frequent breaker trips
- Old wiring (aluminum, ungrounded, undersized copper) present
- Other major appliances on same subpanel (dryer, range, welder)
- Lights flicker or dim when AC starts
- Overheated breakers or junctions near AC circuit
Upgrading to a 200A panel and ensuring separate, dedicated wiring for the AC can solve most issues.
How To Lower The Amp Draw Of Your 5 Ton AC Unit
Regular Maintenance
- Clean/replace filters monthly
- Wash condenser coils twice yearly
- Ensure unobstructed airflow around outdoor unit
These steps help reduce compressor effort and overall current draw.
Upgrade To High-SEER Units
Modern inverter-driven, variable speed compressors can substantially reduce average operating amp draw compared to older fixed-speed models.
Smart Thermostat Programming
Limit cooling at night and schedule setbacks to avoid unnecessary operation during unoccupied hours, lowering both amp load and energy consumption.
Shade And Insulation
Better attic insulation, window shading, and air sealing keep conditioned air in, so the AC doesn’t work as hard.
Frequently Asked Questions About 5 Ton AC Unit Amp Draw
Can You Run A 5 Ton AC Unit On A 30 Amp Breaker?
No. Most 5 ton units require at least a 40-60 amp breaker, depending on manufacturer ratings. Undersized breakers may trip frequently and are not up to code.
What Size Generator For A 5 Ton AC?
Most 5 ton central ACs require at least a 10 kW standby generator (preferably 12-15 kW) to handle both running amps and short start-up current (LRA).
Is 5 Ton AC Residential Or Commercial?
5 ton units are used in both large homes and light commercial spaces. They are typically the upper size limit for residential central cooling.
Can I Install A 5 Ton AC Myself?
Due to complex electrical requirements and EPA refrigerant regulations, installation must be performed by a licensed, certified HVAC contractor.
Top 5 Ton Central AC Brands And Their Amp Ratings (2025)
| Brand / Model | SEER Rating | Running Amps (230V) | Breaker Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trane XR16 | 16 | 28.1 | 40A |
| Carrier Infinity 24VNA6 | 19 | 24.8 | 35-40A |
| Lennox XC21 | 21 | 22.4 | 30-35A |
| Goodman GSX16 | 16 | 29.0 | 40-45A |
| Rheem RA1648AJ1NA | 16 | 27.5 | 40A |
Values are typical. Always confirm with the specific model’s nameplate and local codes.
Summary: Best Practices For 5 Ton AC Amp Draw Management
- Check manufacturer data plate for exact amps required
- Select wire and breaker size per NEC Article 440 and local codes
- Consider high SEER models for lower amp draw and lower utility bills
- Pre-plan panel and circuit upgrades for safe operation and room for future upgrades
- Invest in preventive maintenance to keep running amps low and extend unit lifespan
By understanding the amp draw of a 5 ton AC unit, homeowners and facilities managers can ensure safe operation, code compliance, and efficient system performance for years to come.