1. What is a kW to BTU/hr Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts power measurements from kilowatts (kW) to British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/hr).

Purpose: It helps engineers, HVAC professionals, and energy specialists convert between these common power units used in heating and cooling systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q_{btu} \) — BTU per hour output
• \( P_{kW} \) — Power input in kilowatts

Explanation: 1 kW is equal to 3412 BTU/hr, as this is the standard conversion factor between these units.

3. Importance of Power Unit Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion between kW and BTU/hr is essential for:

• HVAC system sizing and specification
• Energy efficiency calculations
• Equipment performance comparisons
• International standards compliance

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 3412?
A: This comes from the definition of BTU and watt - 1 BTU equals about 0.293071 watts, making 1 kW equal to 3412.142 BTU/hr.

Q2: When would I need this conversion?
A: Common uses include sizing air conditioners, comparing heater outputs, or converting equipment specifications between metric and imperial units.

Q3: Is this conversion exact?
A: The 3412 factor is standard for most practical purposes, though more precise calculations might use 3412.142.

Q4: Can I convert BTU/hr back to kW?
A: Yes, simply divide BTU/hr by 3412 to get kW. We may add a reverse calculator in future updates.

Q5: Does this account for efficiency losses?
A: No, this is a direct unit conversion. Actual system performance would need to consider efficiency factors separately.