Power to BTU Calculator

BTU Conversion Formula:

\[ \text{BTU} = P \times 3412 \]

BTU (BTU/h):

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1. What is a Power to BTU Calculator?

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

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \text{BTU/h} = \text{kW} \times 3412 \]

Where:

\( \text{BTU/h} \) — British Thermal Units per hour
\( \text{kW} \) — Power in kilowatts

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

3. Importance of Power to BTU Conversion

Details: This conversion is essential for sizing heating/cooling equipment, comparing energy systems, and working with specifications that use different units.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the power value in kilowatts (kW) to get the equivalent in BTU/h. The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why 3412 specifically?
A: This is the exact conversion factor where 1 kW = 3412.142 BTU/h, based on the International Table BTU definition.

Q2: Is this BTU/h or just BTU?
A: The result is BTU per hour (BTU/h) since kW is a power (rate) unit, not an energy unit.

Q3: Can I convert BTU back to kW?
A: Yes, divide BTU/h by 3412 to get kW. We may add this reverse calculation in future updates.

Q4: What's a typical kW to BTU conversion for air conditioners?
A: A 3.5 kW AC unit would be about 12,000 BTU/h (commonly called a "1-ton" unit).

Q5: Does this work for other power units?
A: First convert your power to kW (1 MW = 1000 kW, 1 HP ≈ 0.7457 kW), then use this calculator.