1. What is a kW to BTU Calculator?

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

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: 1 kW equals 3412 BTU/h, as this is the standard conversion factor between these units.

3. Importance of Power Unit Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion between kW and BTU/h is essential for sizing HVAC equipment, comparing energy systems, and ensuring proper system specifications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the power value in kilowatts (must be > 0) and the calculator will provide the equivalent in BTU/h.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Does this work for both heating and cooling systems?
A: Yes, the conversion applies equally to both heating and cooling power measurements.

Q3: How accurate is this conversion?
A: The conversion is mathematically exact when using the standard conversion factor.

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

Q5: What's a typical kW to BTU/h conversion example?
A: A 5 kW air conditioner would be equivalent to 5 × 3412 = 17,060 BTU/h.