BTUs per Square Foot Heating Calculator

Heating Load Formula:

\[ Q = A \times \text{BTU/ft}^2 \]

Heating Load (BTU/h):

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1. What is a BTUs per Square Foot Heating Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the heating load in BTUs per hour based on the area to be heated and the BTU requirements per square foot.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and homeowners determine the appropriate heating capacity needed for a space.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Q = A \times \text{BTU/ft}^2 \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Heating load (BTU/h)
\( A \) — Area to be heated (square feet)
\( \text{BTU/ft}^2 \) — BTU requirement per square foot (BTU/h·ft²)

Explanation: The area is multiplied by the BTU requirement per square foot to determine the total heating capacity needed.

3. Importance of Heating Load Calculation

Details: Proper heating load estimation ensures efficient HVAC system sizing, energy efficiency, and comfortable indoor temperatures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the area in square feet and BTU requirement per square foot (default 20 BTU/h·ft² for moderate climates). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical BTU per square foot value?
A: Typically 20 BTU/h·ft² for moderate climates, 30-35 for cold climates, and 10-15 for mild climates.

Q2: What factors affect BTU requirements?
A: Climate, insulation quality, ceiling height, window types, and building materials all affect BTU needs.

Q3: Should I adjust for room height?
A: Yes, for ceilings over 8 feet, multiply the result by (ceiling height ÷ 8).

Q4: How does insulation affect the calculation?
A: Well-insulated spaces may need 10-15% less BTU, while poorly insulated spaces may need 20-30% more.

Q5: Does this include heat loss through windows?
A: The BTU/ft² factor should account for average window heat loss. For many/large windows, increase the factor.