1. What is BTU to kW Conversion?

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

Purpose: It helps engineers, HVAC professionals, and energy specialists convert between these common power units.

2. How Does the Conversion Work?

The conversion uses the formula:

Where:

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

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

3. Importance of Power Unit Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion between units is essential for equipment specification, energy calculations, and system design in both imperial and metric contexts.

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 1 BTU as approximately 0.000293071 kW, making 1 kW equal to 1/0.000293071 ≈ 3412 BTU/h.

Q2: When would I need this conversion?
A: Common applications include sizing HVAC equipment, comparing energy consumption, and working with international specifications.

Q3: How precise is this conversion?
A: The conversion factor is precise to 6 decimal places (1 kW = 3412.141633 BTU/h), but we use 3412 for most practical calculations.

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

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