1. What is a Radiant Floor Heating BTU Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the heating load in BTUs per hour for radiant floor heating systems based on floor area, BTU requirements, and floor factors.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and homeowners determine the appropriate heating capacity needed for radiant floor systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Heating load (BTU/h)
• \( A \) — Floor area (square feet)
• \( \text{BTU/ft}^2 \) — BTU requirement per square foot
• \( F_f \) — Floor factor accounting for heat loss

Explanation: The floor area is multiplied by the BTU requirement and adjusted by the floor factor to account for heat loss through the floor assembly.

3. Importance of Accurate BTU Calculation

Details: Proper BTU estimation ensures comfortable heating, energy efficiency, and correct sizing of heating equipment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the floor area in square feet, BTU/ft² requirement (default 25 BTU/h·ft²), and floor factor (default 1.2). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical BTU/ft² requirement?
A: Most residential spaces need 20-30 BTU/h·ft², but this varies by climate and insulation.

Q2: How is the floor factor determined?
A: The factor accounts for heat loss - 1.0 for slab-on-grade, 1.2 for suspended floors, 1.5 for uninsulated basements.

Q3: Does this include heat loss through walls/windows?
A: No, this calculates floor heating load only. A complete heat loss calculation would include other factors.

Q4: How do I convert BTU/h to kW?
A: Divide BTU/h by 3412 to get kilowatts (kW).

Q5: Should I add a safety factor?
A: It's common to add 10-20% to the calculated load for system sizing.