1. What is a BTU/hr to kW Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts power measurements from British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/hr) to kilowatts (kW).

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals, engineers, and technicians convert between these common power units for heating and cooling systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power in kilowatts (kW)
• \( Q \) — Power in British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/hr)

Explanation: 1 kW is equivalent to 3412 BTU/hr, so dividing BTU/hr by 3412 converts to kW.

3. Importance of Power Unit Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion between these units is essential for system design, energy calculations, and comparing equipment specifications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the BTU/hr value to get the equivalent in kilowatts. The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 3412?
A: This comes from the definition of BTU and kW - 1 kW equals 3412.142 BTU/hr based on the International Table BTU.

Q2: When would I need this conversion?
A: When working with HVAC systems, heaters, or chillers where specifications might use different units.

Q3: How precise is this conversion?
A: Very precise for most engineering applications, though different BTU definitions exist (we use the most common one).

Q4: Can I convert kW back to BTU/hr?
A: Yes, simply multiply kW by 3412 to get BTU/hr.

Q5: What's a typical BTU/hr rating for home air conditioners?
A: Residential units typically range from 5,000 BTU/hr (1.5 kW) to 36,000 BTU/hr (10.5 kW) for central systems.