1. What is BTU to kW Conversion?

Definition: This calculator converts British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h) to kilowatts (kW), two common units of power measurement.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{kW} \) — Power in kilowatts (kW)
• \( Q_{btu} \) — Heat output in British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h)
• 3412 — Conversion factor (BTU/h per kW)

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

3. Importance of Power Unit Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion between these units is essential for equipment specification, energy calculations, and system design in heating and cooling applications.

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 BTU and kW - 1 kW equals 3412.142 BTU/h based on the International Steam Table BTU definition.

Q2: When would I need this conversion?
A: Common uses include sizing HVAC equipment, comparing heating system specifications, or converting energy consumption data.

Q3: Is this conversion exact?
A: The 3412 factor is standard for most practical purposes, though slight variations exist in different measurement standards.

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

Q5: How precise should I be with these conversions?
A: For most engineering purposes, 3-4 significant figures is sufficient, though our calculator shows 6 decimal places for precision.