1. What is BTU to kW Conversion?

Definition: This calculator converts British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h) to kilowatts (kW), which are both units of power.

Purpose: It helps in comparing or converting heating/cooling capacities between systems that use different measurement units.

2. How Does the Conversion Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: 1 kW is equivalent to 3412 BTU/h, so dividing BTU/h by this conversion factor gives the equivalent kW value.

3. Importance of BTU to kW Conversion

Details: Many heating and cooling systems specify capacity in BTU/h, while electrical systems often use kW. Conversion allows for accurate system comparisons and sizing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the BTU/h value you want to convert. The result will show the equivalent power in kilowatts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 3412?
A: This comes from the definition of BTU and kW. 1 kW = 3412.142 BTU/h exactly, based on the International Table BTU definition.

Q2: Is this conversion exact?
A: Yes, when using the International Table BTU. Other BTU definitions may have slightly different conversion factors.

Q3: What's a typical BTU rating for air conditioners?
A: Residential AC units typically range from 5,000 BTU/h (small window unit) to 36,000 BTU/h (3-ton central AC).

Q4: How many kW is 10,000 BTU/h?
A: Approximately 2.93 kW (10,000 ÷ 3412 ≈ 2.93).

Q5: Can I convert kW to BTU/h with this?
A: While this calculator is designed for BTU/h to kW, you can reverse the calculation by multiplying kW by 3412 to get BTU/h.