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Conversion Formula:
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The Watts to BTU/h conversion is used to convert electrical power (watts) to thermal power (British Thermal Units per hour). This conversion is essential in HVAC systems, electrical heating applications, and energy efficiency calculations where both electrical and thermal power measurements are involved.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: The conversion factor 3.412 represents the number of BTU per hour equivalent to one watt of electrical power, based on the relationship between electrical energy and thermal energy.
Details: Accurate power conversion between watts and BTU/h is crucial for sizing heating and cooling systems, calculating energy consumption, comparing electrical and thermal efficiency, and ensuring proper equipment selection in HVAC applications.
Tips: Enter the power value in watts. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the equivalent BTU per hour using the standard conversion factor.
Q1: Why is the conversion factor 3.412?
A: The factor 3.412 comes from the definition of BTU and watt. One watt equals 3.412142 BTU per hour, based on the relationship: 1 watt = 3.412142 BTU/h.
Q2: What are typical applications for this conversion?
A: Common applications include sizing electric heaters, calculating air conditioner capacity, determining heat output from electrical devices, and energy efficiency calculations in building systems.
Q3: Is this conversion exact?
A: For most practical purposes, 3.412 is sufficiently accurate. The exact conversion is 3.412142 BTU/h per watt, but 3.412 is commonly used in engineering calculations.
Q4: Can I convert BTU/h back to watts?
A: Yes, to convert BTU/h to watts, divide the BTU/h value by 3.412 (Watts = BTU/h ÷ 3.412).
Q5: Are there different types of BTU?
A: In most engineering contexts, the International Steam Table BTU is used, which equals approximately 1055.06 joules. This is the standard used in the watts to BTU/h conversion.