===== Duct Sizing Rules of Thumb ===== General rule would be that 1sq" of filtered return will move 2 cfm. Figure unit tonnages at 450-CFM per-ton of cooling. Therefore our 2 1/2 ton unit upstairs needs 1125 CFM of air movement. A ton of refrigeration (12,000 BTUs per ton) is the amount of heat required to melt a ton (2000 lbs.) of ice at 32 degrees Fahrenheit.