1. What is a Garage Heater BTU Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the heating load (in BTU/h) required for a garage based on its area and heating requirements per square foot.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Heating load (BTU/h)
• \( A \) — Garage area (square feet)
• \( \text{BTU/ft}^2 \) — Heating requirement per square foot (BTU/h·ft²)

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

3. Importance of Proper Heater Sizing

Details: Correct BTU calculation ensures your garage heater will maintain comfortable temperatures without being oversized (wasting energy) or undersized (running constantly).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the garage area in square feet and the BTU per square foot requirement (default 30 BTU/h·ft² for insulated garages in moderate climates). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical BTU/ft² value for garages?
A: Typically 30 BTU/ft² for insulated garages, 45 BTU/ft² for uninsulated, and 60+ BTU/ft² in very cold climates.

Q2: How does insulation affect the calculation?
A: Well-insulated garages require less BTU/ft² (20-30), while uninsulated spaces may need 45-60 BTU/ft².

Q3: Should I round up the calculated BTU?
A: Yes, choose the next available heater size above your calculation for best performance.

Q4: What if my garage has high ceilings?
A: For ceilings over 8 feet, multiply the area by (ceiling height ÷ 8) before calculating.

Q5: Does this include heat loss from doors/windows?
A: The BTU/ft² factor accounts for average heat loss. For many/large openings, increase the factor by 10-20%.