1. What is a Garage Heater BTU Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the required heating capacity (in BTU/h) for a garage based on area, heat loss per square foot, and environmental factors.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and contractors properly size a garage heater for efficient and effective heating.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Required heating capacity (BTU/h)
• \( A \) — Area of the garage (ft²)
• \( BTU/ft² \) — Heat loss per square foot (BTU/h·ft²)
• \( F_g \) — Garage-specific factor accounting for insulation and climate

Explanation: The base heating requirement is calculated by multiplying area by heat loss, then adjusted for garage-specific conditions.

3. Importance of Proper Heater Sizing

Details: Correct BTU calculation ensures comfortable temperatures, energy efficiency, and prevents overworking or underperforming heating systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the garage area in square feet, typical heat loss (default 10 BTU/h·ft²), and garage factor (default 1.5). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical BTU/ft² value?
A: For moderately insulated garages, 10 BTU/h·ft² is common. Poor insulation may require 15-20 BTU/h·ft².

Q2: How do I determine the garage factor?
A: Use 1.0 for well-insulated garages, 1.5 for moderate insulation, and 2.0+ for poorly insulated or very cold climates.

Q3: Should I round up the calculated BTU?
A: Yes, it's recommended to round up to the nearest heater size available (typically in 5,000 BTU increments).

Q4: Does this account for ceiling height?
A: The default values assume 8-10 ft ceilings. For higher ceilings, increase the BTU/ft² value.

Q5: How does garage door insulation affect this?
A: Poorly insulated garage doors can increase heat loss significantly - consider using a higher factor if doors aren't insulated.