Calculator Inputs
Plotly Graph
The graph compares raw conversion, effective output, and design output with your current assumptions.
Example Data Table
| kW | BTU/h | BTU/min | Tons Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.00 | 3,412.14 | 56.87 | 0.2843 |
| 5.00 | 17,060.71 | 284.35 | 1.4217 |
| 10.00 | 34,121.42 | 568.69 | 2.8435 |
| 25.00 | 85,303.55 | 1,421.73 | 7.1086 |
| 50.00 | 170,607.10 | 2,843.45 | 14.2173 |
| 100.00 | 341,214.20 | 5,686.90 | 28.4345 |
Formula Used
Use the direct conversion for nameplate sizing. Use effective and design values when actual construction conditions, cycling, efficiency loss, or planning margins must be considered.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the electrical capacity in kilowatts for one unit.
- Set the number of units running on the project.
- Add realistic efficiency and duty cycle percentages.
- Enter expected operating hours and your energy rate.
- Apply a safety factor for planning or procurement.
- Press Calculate to see BTU, energy, cost, and design output.
- Review the graph and export the result as CSV or PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the standard kW to BTU conversion factor?
One kilowatt equals 3,412.142 BTU per hour. This is the main factor used for electric heating, temporary site power studies, and HVAC equipment sizing reviews.
2) Why does the calculator include efficiency?
Efficiency adjusts nameplate power to estimate usable heat output. This helps when field conditions, equipment losses, or indirect heating systems reduce delivered thermal performance.
3) What does duty cycle mean here?
Duty cycle represents how long equipment actually runs during the period. A 60% duty cycle means the unit operates about 60% of the total time.
4) Why show both effective and design BTU values?
Effective BTU reflects expected delivered output. Design BTU adds your safety factor, which is useful for procurement, planning reserves, or selecting a slightly larger temporary unit.
5) Can this calculator help with construction trailer HVAC planning?
Yes. It is useful for temporary offices, enclosed work zones, drying setups, and heater comparisons where kW ratings need quick BTU interpretation.
6) Does this tool estimate operating cost too?
Yes. Enter the energy rate per kWh, and the calculator multiplies it by the estimated consumed energy during the selected operating period.
7) When should I use a safety factor?
Use a safety factor when weather, insulation quality, air leakage, or worksite uncertainty may increase required heating or cooling capacity beyond the basic estimate.
8) Is BTU per hour the same as total BTU?
No. BTU per hour is a rate. Total BTU is the accumulated heat over time, which this calculator finds by multiplying hourly output by operating hours.