What is the generally accepted range for evaporator airflow in CFM per ton of residential air conditioning?

The generally accepted range for evaporator airflow in residential air conditioning systems is typically around 350 to 450 CFM (cubic feet per minute) per ton of cooling capacity. This range allows for optimal heat exchange efficiency, ensuring that the refrigerant can effectively absorb heat from the indoor air and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

This airflow rate is essential because it provides adequate temperature and humidity control; if the airflow is too low, the system may not effectively cool the space or could lead to issues such as ice formation on the evaporator coil. Conversely, if the airflow is too high, it could lead to insufficient heat exchange, resulting in a less effective cooling process. Therefore, maintaining this range contributes significantly to the efficiency and functionality of residential HVAC systems.