Two digits after the series letters are the capacity code in thousands of BTU. Paste your model number for an instant decode.
Always confirm against the data plate's rated capacity line — model ranges occasionally reuse digits for non-capacity codes, and the plate is authoritative.
| Capacity code | BTU/hr | Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 09 | 9,000 | 0.75 |
| 12 | 12,000 | 1.0 |
| 18 | 18,000 | 1.5 |
| 24 | 24,000 | 2.0 |
| 30 | 30,000 | 2.5 |
| 36 | 36,000 | 3.0 |
| 42 | 42,000 | 3.5 |
| 48 | 48,000 | 4.0 |
| 60 | 60,000 | 5.0 |
| 61 | 60,000 | 5.0 |
The model prefix tells you the system type and era; the two-digit capacity code (a multiple of 6) sits after the series and SEER digits.
The newest inverter and R-32 series occasionally vary their formatting — always confirm against the rated-capacity line on the unit’s data plate.
Amana American Standard Blue Star Bryant Carrier Daikin Heil Hitachi Lennox LG Lloyd O General Panasonic Payne Rheem Ruud Samsung Trane Voltas Whirlpool York
On the data plate — a metal or foil sticker on the side or back of the outdoor unit (or behind the front panel on indoor split units). Use the model number, not the serial number, which encodes the manufacture date rather than capacity.
Two digits after the series letters are the capacity code in thousands of BTU. Divide the BTU code by 12 to get tons.
Paste the model number from the outdoor unit's data plate into the decoder above — it applies Goodman's nomenclature automatically. Example: GSX140241K = 2.0 tons.
Capacity decoding on this page follows Goodman’s published model-number nomenclature. To confirm a unit’s actual rated capacity and efficiency, cross-check the authoritative references below.
Tonnage is derived from nominal cooling capacity: 1 ton of refrigeration = 12,000 BTU/hr.
Model-number conventions and standards evolve, and manufacturers occasionally reuse digits for non-capacity codes — the rated-capacity line on the unit’s data plate is always authoritative. Figures here are for identification and planning, not a substitute for a professional load calculation.
Different brand? Back to the full 22-brand decoder. Sizing a replacement? Check what your space really needs with the AC tonnage calculator first — the old unit may have been mis-sized.