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Conversion Formula:
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Kilowatt to BTU conversion is used to convert electrical power (in kilowatts) to heating/cooling capacity (in British Thermal Units per hour). This is particularly useful for sizing HVAC systems and understanding energy requirements for home appliances.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion factor (3412.142) represents the number of BTUs equivalent to one kilowatt-hour of energy, converted to an hourly rate.
Details: Accurate BTU calculation is essential for properly sizing heating and cooling systems, ensuring energy efficiency, and determining the appropriate capacity for home appliances like air conditioners and heaters.
Tips: Enter the power value in kilowatts (kW). The value must be a positive number. The calculator will automatically convert it to BTU/hour using the standard conversion factor.
Q1: Why convert kW to BTU/h?
A: HVAC systems are typically rated in BTU/h while electrical consumption is measured in kW. This conversion helps match equipment capacity to energy requirements.
Q2: Is the conversion factor exact?
A: The factor 3412.142 is a standard conversion based on the definition of BTU and kilowatt-hour, providing a precise calculation for practical applications.
Q3: Can I use this for commercial applications?
A: While primarily designed for home use, the same conversion factor applies to commercial applications, though larger systems may require additional considerations.
Q4: Does this account for efficiency losses?
A: No, this is a direct unit conversion. Actual system performance may vary based on efficiency ratings (SEER, EER, COP) which should be considered separately.
Q5: What's a typical kW to BTU/h conversion for home AC units?
A: A typical 3.5 kW residential air conditioner would be approximately 12,000 BTU/h (often called a "one-ton" unit).