1. What is BTU/hr?

BTU/hr (British Thermal Units per hour) is a unit of power that measures energy transfer rate. It's commonly used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to express heating or cooling capacity.

2. Conversion Formula

The conversion formula from watts to BTU/hr is:

Where:

• \( BTU/hr \) — British Thermal Units per hour
• \( W \) — Power in watts
• \( 3.412142 \) — Conversion factor (exact value)

3. Practical Applications

Details: This conversion is essential when comparing electrical heating systems (rated in watts) with fuel-based systems (rated in BTUs), or when sizing HVAC equipment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power in watts (must be positive number). The calculator will instantly provide the equivalent value in BTU/hr.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why convert watts to BTU/hr?
A: To compare electrical heating/cooling systems with fuel-based systems that use BTU ratings.

Q2: Is the conversion factor exact?
A: Yes, 1 watt = 3.412142 BTU/hr exactly by definition.

Q3: What's the difference between BTU and BTU/hr?
A: BTU measures energy, while BTU/hr measures power (energy per unit time).

Q4: How many BTU/hr is a typical space heater?
A: A 1500W heater converts to about 5118 BTU/hr (1500 × 3.412142).

Q5: Can I convert BTU/hr back to watts?
A: Yes, divide BTU/hr by 3.412142 to get watts.