1. What is Watts to BTU Conversion?

The Watts to BTU per hour conversion is used to convert electrical power (in watts) to thermal energy (in British Thermal Units per hour). This is particularly useful in HVAC systems and energy calculations where you need to compare electrical power with thermal output.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple conversion formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: This conversion factor comes from the definition of BTU and watt, where 1 watt is equal to 3.412142 BTU per hour.

3. Importance of Power Conversion

Details: Converting between watts and BTU/hr is essential for sizing heating and cooling equipment, comparing electrical and thermal systems, and energy efficiency calculations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the power in watts to get the equivalent thermal energy in BTU per hour. The value must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 3.412142?
A: It comes from the definition that 1 BTU equals about 1055.06 joules, and 1 watt equals 1 joule per second. 3600 seconds/hour divided by 1055.06 joules/BTU gives 3.412142 BTU/hr per watt.

Q2: Is this conversion exact?
A: Yes, it's based on the exact definitions of the units, not empirical measurements.

Q3: Does this account for efficiency?
A: No, this is a direct unit conversion. Actual thermal output depends on the efficiency of the device converting electrical to thermal energy.

Q4: Can I use this for air conditioning calculations?
A: Yes, but remember that air conditioners' cooling capacity is often rated in BTU/hr, while their electrical consumption is in watts.

Q5: What about CFM in HVAC calculations?
A: CFM (cubic feet per minute) relates to airflow and isn't directly used in this simple conversion, but would be needed for complete HVAC system sizing.