How Many Amps Does A 5 Ton AC Unit Use? Essential Electrical Specs For Homeowners And Installers

Understanding the amp draw of a 5 ton AC unit is vital for choosing the right breaker, wire size, and ensuring safe, efficient installation. Many factors determine a unit’s electrical requirements—from brand efficiency to voltage setup. This guide explores how many amps a 5 ton air conditioner uses, what influences that current draw, and practical considerations for both home and commercial settings.

Summary Table: 5 Ton AC Unit Amp Draw at a Glance

Configuration	Typical Voltage	Typical Amps Drawn	Breaker Size Recommendation	Wire Gauge Suggestion*
Central Split System	208/230V	22-35A	40-50A	8 AWG (Copper)
Package Unit	208/230V	25-38A	40-60A	6-8 AWG (Copper)
Heat Pump System	208/230V	28-40A	50-60A	6 AWG (Copper)

*Wire gauge varies by run length and local codes. Always consult a licensed electrician.

How A 5 Ton AC Unit’s Amp Draw Is Calculated

A 5 ton air conditioning unit is designed to cool large spaces—typically 2,500 to 3,200 square feet—by moving roughly 60,000 BTUs of heat per hour. AC amp draw depends on several parameters, including voltage, SEER rating (efficiency), compressor technology, and installation environment. Most 5 ton AC units are powered by 208/230V circuits, which enables them to operate efficiently without excessive current draw.

To estimate amps: use the formula Amps = Watts / Volts. Since most 5 ton units use about 5,000–7,500 watts, divide this by the supply voltage. For example, 6,600 watts at 230V equals about 28.7 amps during steady operation.

The amp draw published by manufacturers will specify Minimum Circuit Ampacity (MCA), which is the minimum wire/amp size needed for safe, ongoing operation—often between 32 and 45 amps for a 5 ton unit.

Main Electrical Components That Affect Amperage

• Compressor: The heart of the system; starting draw (LRA) can exceed 100 amps, but running amps typically range from 20 to 30.
• Fan Motors: Outdoor condenser and indoor blower motors add 2–4 amps each.
• Additional Systems: Units with electric heaters, multi-stage compressors, or advanced electronics may use more current.

Typical Amp Range For A 5 Ton AC By Type And Brand

While all 5 ton units are designed for similar cooling capacities, actual amp draw can vary:

• Central Split Systems: Normally draw 22–35 amps under load.
• Packaged Rooftop Units: Often require up to 38 amps, especially if equipped with electric backup heat.
• Heat Pumps: May use up to 40 amps, especially during defrost cycles.
• Energy-Efficient (High SEER) Models: Can operate at the lower end (22–28 amps).

Always cross-check with the unit nameplate for UL-listed Minimum Circuit Ampacity and Maximum Overcurrent Protection ratings.

Breaker Size And Electrical Code Compliance

Breaker sizing is critical for safety. The National Electrical Code (NEC) typically requires the breaker to be 125% of the unit’s running current (MCA) to handle startup surges.

• Example: If a unit’s MCA is 32 amps, the minimum breaker size is 32 × 1.25 = 40 amps.
• Breaker Range: Most 5 ton AC units require a 40- to 60-amp dedicated double-pole breaker.

Breaker sizing should be based on manufacturer guidance, wire length, and local code.

Recommended Wire Gauge For 5 Ton AC Units

Amps	Maximum Distance*	Minimum Copper Wire Size (AWG)
30-39	Up to 50 feet	10 AWG
40-49	Up to 50 feet	8 AWG
50-60	Up to 50 feet	6 AWG

*Longer runs require larger wire to compensate for voltage drop. All installations must follow NEC and local regulations.

Factors That Influence 5 Ton AC Amp Draw

• Compressor Type: Scroll and variable-speed compressors tend to be more efficient, drawing fewer amps.
• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): Higher SEER units use less current for the same BTU output.
• Voltage Supply: Proper voltage (within 5% of rated value) ensures safe operation; undervoltage can increase amp draw.
• Temperature And Load: Higher outside temperatures boost amp draw; a dirty filter or coil further increases demand.
• Age And Maintenance: A well-maintained unit will run more efficiently and draw fewer amps than one due for service.

Choosing The Correct Breaker And Electrical Setup For A 5 Ton AC

Selecting the right breaker and wire size is not just about code compliance—it’s about protecting property and lives. The correct setup depends on:

1. Nameplate Data: Always refer to the AC’s identification sticker for MCA and MOCP.
2. Dedicated Circuit: All large AC units must have their own breaker and wire run, not shared with other loads.
3. Outdoor Disconnect: NEC requires a weatherproof disconnect box within sight of the outdoor unit for emergency servicing.
4. GFCI Protection: Newer codes in some areas require ground fault protection for outdoor equipment.

Practical Installation Example: Calculating Amps And Breaker For A 5 Ton AC

Suppose you’re installing a 5 ton, 230V single-phase air conditioner rated at 6,000 watts. Using the formula Amps = Watts / Volts:

• 6,000W / 230V = 26.1 amps (steady state)

Manufacturers typically specify a minimum circuit ampacity—say, 35 amps—accounting for extra loads and surges. Multiply by 1.25 to find the correct breaker: 35 × 1.25 = 43.75 amps; round up to a standard 45 or 50 amp breaker.

For this circuit, use at least 8 AWG copper wire, or upgrade to 6 AWG for longer runs or higher amp capacities.

What Happens If The Breaker Or Wire Size Is Too Small?

If the breaker or wire is undersized, the immediate risk is tripping under normal operation. Over time, undersized wiring can overheat, posing a serious fire risk. Additionally, your AC’s compressor motor will suffer from repeated short-cycling and voltage drops, shortening its lifespan and voiding manufacturer warranties.

Inadequate circuit protection is a frequent cause of home electrical fires and costly repairs.

Should You Oversize The Breaker?

Oversizing the breaker beyond manufacturer recommendations is not advised. If the amp rating of the breaker is too high, it won’t trip in the event of a real equipment fault, allowing wiring and equipment to overheat and fail catastrophically.

Safety guidelines must always be followed for both breaker and wire sizing.

How To Find Your AC Unit’s Amp Rating

The best source for amp draw is the unit’s nameplate sticker or manual, usually located inside the outdoor condenser panel or air handler. It clearly lists:

• Minimum Circuit Ampacity (MCA)
• Maximum Overcurrent Protection (MOCP)
• Electrical voltage and phase

If this sticker is missing, consult the manufacturer’s website using the model number, or contact an HVAC professional.

Quick Reference: Typical Nameplate Data For 5 Ton Units

Brand	Model Example	Voltage	Running Amps	MCA	MOCP
Carrier	24ACC648A003	208/230V	28.9	36	50
Trane	4TTR6060J1000	208/230V	30	38	60
Goodman	GSX160601	208/230V	26.6	35	50
Lennox	EL16XC1-060	208/230V	29.3	39	60

Difference Between Starting Amps (LRA) And Running Amps (RLA)

Locked Rotor Amps (LRA) is the high initial surge current when the compressor motor starts—often 70-100+ amps for a 5 ton unit. Running Load Amps (RLA) is the typical current once running, usually 22–35 amps. Electrical circuits must accommodate both, but wire and breaker size is based on continuous load per NEC rules.

How High-Efficiency 5 Ton AC Units Lower Amp Draw

Modern high SEER (16–21+) air conditioners with advanced compressors and ECM fan motors require less current than older models. This means they operate at the lower end of the amp range (22–28 amps), saving money on electrical infrastructure and monthly bills.

Incentives to upgrade may include energy rebates and lower operating costs.

Special Cases: Heat Strips And Combined Loads

Some 5 ton units in colder climates include integrated electric heat strips for emergency or supplemental heating. These strips can require an additional 10–60 amps—often on a separate breaker and wire. Always calculate total load when sizing electrical service for dual-purpose units.

Guidelines For Homeowners On Upgrading Or Replacing A 5 Ton AC

1. Check the existing panel and wiring for sufficient amp and voltage capacity.
2. Review the new unit’s amp requirements (MCA/MOCP) before selecting breaker and wire size.
3. Have a professional assess panel loading—major upgrades may need subpanels or new circuits.
4. Factor in secondary loads (heat strips, air handler fans, sump pumps nearby) in any calculation.

Never reuse undersized wiring or circuit breakers for new, larger AC units; this is a major code violation and safety hazard.

Commercial Installations: 5 Ton AC Electrical Needs

Commercial units often run on 3-phase 208/230V or 460V power supply, which reduces amp draw per circuit. Three-phase 5 ton units may require only 18–24 amps per leg, allowing for more efficient electrical distribution. All industrial or commercial work must be planned by a licensed electrician or engineer in compliance with national and local codes.

FAQs: 5 Ton AC Unit Amps And Electrical Setup

• Can I Use My Old Breaker With A New 5 Ton AC? Only if the existing breaker and wiring precisely match the new unit’s rated MCA and MOCP.
• How Many Amps Does A 5 Ton Heat Pump Draw? Slightly higher than standard AC at peak—plan for 28–40 amps for the compressor, plus any supplemental heat.
• Should I Install A Disconnect Switch? Yes, this is required by code—and is crucial for safe servicing.
• Is GFCI Required For Outdoor AC Units? Recent code changes in some regions require GFCI protection for outside HVAC equipment under certain conditions.

Summary Of Amps For 5 Ton AC Units And Safe Installation Practices

The typical amp draw for a 5 ton AC unit is 22 to 40 amps depending on the model and features. Safe, efficient operation requires a dedicated 40- to 60-amp breaker, wire sized per local electrical code, and careful attention to manufacturer nameplate ratings. Never guess—always confirm the MCA and MOCP values before making electrical decisions. When in doubt, consult an HVAC electrician to ensure your system is up to code and fully protected.