Heating Units Formula:
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator estimates the required heating capacity (in BTU/h) for a garage based on its area, heat loss characteristics, and insulation factors.
Purpose: It helps homeowners and contractors properly size heating equipment for garage spaces.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The base heat loss is multiplied by garage area and adjusted for specific conditions like insulation and climate.
Details: Correct sizing ensures efficient operation, prevents underheating, and avoids energy waste from oversized units.
Tips: Enter the garage area in square feet, typical BTU/ft² value (default 30), and garage factor (default 1.2). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What's the typical BTU/ft² value?
A: For garages, 30 BTU/ft² is common, but this varies by climate (higher in cold regions).
Q2: What affects the garage factor?
A: Insulation quality (1.0 for well-insulated, up to 1.5 for uninsulated), door types, and ceiling height.
Q3: How do I adjust for ceiling height?
A: Multiply result by (Actual Height / 8) if different from standard 8-foot ceilings.
Q4: Should I round up the result?
A: Yes, heating units typically come in fixed sizes - round up to the nearest available unit size.
Q5: Does this account for extreme temperatures?
A: No, for temperatures below 0°F, consider increasing the BTU/ft² value by 10-20%.