1. What is Watts to BTU/hr Conversion?

The Watts to BTU/hr conversion calculates the equivalent power in British Thermal Units per hour from a given value in watts. This is commonly used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and energy calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: This conversion factor comes from the exact definition that 1 watt = 3.412142 BTU/hr.

3. Importance of Power Conversion

Details: Converting between watts and BTUs is essential when working with equipment that uses different power measurement systems, particularly in HVAC applications where BTU/hr is commonly used.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why convert watts to BTU/hr?
A: Many heating and cooling systems in the US use BTU/hr ratings, while electrical components use watts. Conversion allows for direct comparison.

Q2: Is the conversion factor exact?
A: Yes, 3.412142 is an exact conversion factor based on the definition of BTU and watt.

Q3: What's the difference between BTU and BTU/hr?
A: BTU measures energy, while BTU/hr measures power (energy per unit time). 1 BTU/hr is the power needed to produce 1 BTU of energy in 1 hour.

Q4: Can I convert BTU/hr back to watts?
A: Yes, divide BTU/hr by 3.412142 to get watts.

Q5: When would I need this conversion?
A: Common applications include sizing air conditioners, comparing electrical heaters to gas heaters, or calculating heat output from electrical devices.