BTU Calculation Formula:
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator estimates the total BTU (British Thermal Units) requirement for a combi boiler by adding hot water demand and heating demand.
Purpose: It helps homeowners and heating professionals determine the appropriate boiler size for efficient operation.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: Combi boilers must meet both hot water and heating demands simultaneously, so their capacity is the sum of both requirements.
Details: Correct sizing ensures energy efficiency, adequate heating performance, and prevents short cycling of the boiler.
Tips: Enter the hot water demand and heating demand in BTU/h. Both values must be ≥ 0. For accurate results, calculate each component separately.
Q1: How do I determine hot water demand?
A: Calculate based on the number of bathrooms and simultaneous fixtures. A typical shower requires about 30,000 BTU/h.
Q2: How do I calculate heating demand?
A: Perform a heat loss calculation considering your home's size, insulation, windows, and climate.
Q3: What's the typical BTU range for residential combi boilers?
A: Most residential units range from 60,000 to 150,000 BTU/h, depending on home size and climate.
Q4: Should I add a safety margin?
A: It's common to add 10-20% to the calculated BTU for extreme weather conditions.
Q5: What if my calculated BTU falls between standard sizes?
A: Always round up to the next available boiler size to ensure adequate capacity.