1. What is Power to BTU Conversion?

The Power to BTU conversion calculates the heat energy equivalent of electrical power. It converts watts (a unit of power) to British Thermal Units per hour (a unit of heat energy transfer rate).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Heat energy in BTU per hour
• \( W \) — Electrical power in watts
• 3.412142 — Conversion factor (1 watt = 3.412142 BTU/hr)

Explanation: This conversion is based on the exact relationship between the watt and BTU, where 1 watt equals 3.412142 BTU per hour.

3. Importance of Power Conversion

Details: This conversion is essential for comparing electrical power with heating/cooling capacity, sizing HVAC systems, and energy efficiency calculations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power in watts (must be a positive number). The calculator will instantly show the equivalent BTU per hour value.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why convert watts to BTU/hr?
A: This conversion helps compare electrical power with thermal energy, useful for HVAC system sizing and energy efficiency analysis.

Q2: What's the exact conversion factor?
A: 1 watt = 3.412142 BTU/hr exactly, based on the International Table BTU definition.

Q3: Is this conversion reversible?
A: Yes, to convert BTU/hr to watts, divide by 3.412142.

Q4: Does this account for efficiency?
A: No, this is a direct unit conversion. Actual thermal output depends on device efficiency.

Q5: What about other power units?
A: For kilowatts, multiply by 1000 first to get watts. For horsepower, use 1 hp = 745.7 watts.