1. What is BTU Cooling Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour required to cool a space based on area, BTU per square foot, and adjustment factors.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and homeowners determine appropriate air conditioning capacity for a given space.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Cooling capacity required (BTU/h)
• \( A \) — Area to be cooled (square feet)
• \( BTU/ft² \) — Cooling load per square foot (BTU/h·ft²)
• \( F \) — Adjustment factor for special conditions

Explanation: The area is multiplied by the base cooling requirement per square foot, then adjusted for factors like insulation, sunlight exposure, etc.

3. Importance of Proper BTU Calculation

Details: Accurate BTU calculation ensures efficient cooling, proper equipment sizing, energy savings, and prevents overworking AC units.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the area (default 800 ft²), BTU per square foot (default 20), and factor (default 1.0). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical BTU/ft² value?
A: For residential spaces, 20 BTU/ft² is standard, but this varies by climate (25-30 for hot climates, 15-20 for moderate).

Q2: When would I adjust the factor?
A: Increase above 1.0 for spaces with high ceilings, poor insulation, or large windows; decrease for well-insulated spaces.

Q3: How does this relate to AC tonnage?
A: 12,000 BTU/h equals 1 ton of cooling. Divide result by 12,000 to get required tonnage.

Q4: Does this account for occupancy?
A: No, add 600 BTU/h per person if occupancy exceeds 2 people in the space.

Q5: What about kitchen areas?
A: Add 4,000 BTU/h if the space includes a kitchen.