The entropy generation rate in a fin-tube heat exchanger is investigated as a basis for thermodynamic optimization associated with single fin-tube heat exchanger. The entropy generation (irreversibility)analysis is used to find the optimum design factor and investigate total entropy generation, optimum dimensions of fin length, tube inner and outer diameters, and fin spacing on the variation of design factors. The results of this study are as follows: As the outer diameter increases, optimum !in spacing and fin length increase but the entropy generation and optimum inner diameter decrease; As fin thickness increases, the entropy generation of system and optimum fin spacing increase; As fin length increases, entropy generation and optimum outer diameter increase.