1. What is BTU?

BTU (British Thermal Unit) is a unit of heat energy. One BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. For electric heaters, we measure heat output in BTU per hour (BTU/hr).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple conversion formula:

Where:

• \( Watts \) — Electrical power input to the heater
• \( 3.412 \) — Conversion factor (1 Watt = 3.412 BTU/hr)

Explanation: This conversion works because electric heaters convert electrical energy to heat energy with nearly 100% efficiency.

3. Importance of BTU Calculation

Details: Knowing the BTU output helps determine if a heater is appropriately sized for a space. Generally, you need about 20 BTU for each square foot of living space.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the wattage rating of your electric heater (found on the nameplate). The calculator will show the equivalent heat output in BTUs per hour.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many BTUs do I need to heat a room?
A: As a rule of thumb, you need about 20 BTU per square foot. For example, a 150 sq.ft room would need a 3,000 BTU heater.

Q2: Are all electric heaters 100% efficient?
A: Essentially yes - nearly all electrical energy is converted to heat. However, some heat may be lost depending on heater design and placement.

Q3: How does this compare to gas heaters?
A: Gas heaters are typically rated by BTU input, not output, since some heat is lost in exhaust gases. Their efficiency is usually 80-98%.

Q4: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: No - heat pumps can deliver more BTU than their electrical input would suggest because they move heat rather than generate it.

Q5: What about 240V vs 120V heaters?
A: Voltage doesn't affect the BTU conversion - only the wattage matters. Higher voltage heaters can deliver more watts with less current.