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Conversion Formula:
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The Electric Furnace BTU Calculator converts electric furnace wattage to BTU output using the standard conversion factor. This helps determine the heating capacity of electric furnaces for proper sizing and efficiency assessment.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts electrical power (watts) to thermal output (BTU/hr) using the standard conversion factor of 3.412 BTU per watt-hour.
Details: Accurate BTU calculation is essential for proper furnace sizing, energy efficiency assessment, heating system design, and ensuring adequate heating capacity for residential and commercial spaces.
Tips: Enter the furnace wattage in watts. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the BTU output using the standard conversion factor.
Q1: Why convert watts to BTU for electric furnaces?
A: BTU (British Thermal Unit) is the standard measurement for heating capacity, while watts measure electrical power. Conversion allows comparison with other heating systems and proper sizing.
Q2: What is the conversion factor 3.412 based on?
A: 3.412 BTU/hr per watt is derived from the definition of BTU and watt, where 1 watt = 3.412 BTU per hour based on the relationship between electrical and thermal energy.
Q3: How accurate is this conversion?
A: The conversion is mathematically precise for 100% efficient electric heating, but actual furnace efficiency may vary slightly due to heat loss and other factors.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for other electric heaters?
A: Yes, the same conversion applies to all electric resistance heating devices including space heaters, baseboard heaters, and electric boilers.
Q5: What are typical BTU requirements for different room sizes?
A: Generally, 20-30 BTU per square foot is recommended, but this varies based on climate, insulation, ceiling height, and other factors.