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Power to BTU/hr Formula:
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The Power to BTU conversion calculates the British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/hr) from electrical power in watts. This conversion is essential for comparing electrical power with thermal energy output, particularly in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: One watt of electrical power is equivalent to 3.412 BTU per hour. This conversion factor allows for direct comparison between electrical energy input and thermal energy output.
Details: This conversion is crucial for HVAC system sizing, energy efficiency calculations, and determining the heating or cooling capacity required for various applications. It helps engineers and technicians properly size equipment and estimate energy consumption.
Tips: Enter the electrical power in watts. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the equivalent BTU per hour.
Q1: What is the exact conversion factor from watts to BTU/hr?
A: The exact conversion factor is 3.412141633 BTU/hr per watt, though 3.412 is commonly used for practical calculations.
Q2: Why is this conversion important for HVAC systems?
A: HVAC systems are often rated in BTU/hr for cooling/heating capacity, while electrical consumption is measured in watts. This conversion helps determine system efficiency and proper sizing.
Q3: Can this calculator be used for three-phase power systems?
A: Yes, as long as you input the total power in watts, the conversion applies regardless of the electrical system type.
Q4: How accurate is this conversion for different applications?
A: The conversion is mathematically exact for energy equivalence, though real-world efficiency factors may affect actual thermal output.
Q5: What's the difference between BTU and BTU/hr?
A: BTU measures energy, while BTU/hr measures power (energy per unit time). This calculator converts electrical power (watts) to thermal power (BTU/hr).