BTU/hr to kW Converter
Thermal power and cooling capacity conversion tool.
How to convert BTU/hr to kW?
The British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a measure of heat energy. In the HVAC industry, BTU/hr (BTU per hour) represents the cooling or heating capacity of a system. The Kilowatt (kW) is the standard SI unit used for the same purpose in modern engineering and international specifications.
1 kW = 3,412.14 BTU/hr
1,000 BTU/hr = 0.29307 kW
AC & Heating Capacity Table
Common capacities found in residential and commercial units:
| Cooling Capacity (BTU/hr) | Thermal Power (kW) - Approx | Tons of Refrigeration |
|---|---|---|
| 9,000 BTU/hr | 2.64 kW | 0.75 Tons |
| 12,000 BTU/hr | 3.52 kW | 1.00 Ton |
| 18,000 BTU/hr | 5.27 kW | 1.50 Tons |
| 24,000 BTU/hr | 7.03 kW | 2.00 Tons |
| 36,000 BTU/hr | 10.55 kW | 3.00 Tons |
| 60,000 BTU/hr | 17.58 kW | 5.00 Tons |
BTU in HVAC Engineering
Accurate thermal conversion is critical for several technical tasks:
- Cooling Load Calculation: When sizing an AC unit for a server room or warehouse, you might calculate the load in kW (based on electrical equipment heat) but need to buy a unit rated in BTU.
- Efficiency Ratings (EER/COP): Converting units allows engineers to compare the efficiency of different manufacturers across international markets.
- Boiler Capacity: Industrial boilers often list their output in BTU/hr, while energy consumption and utility billing are measured in kW or Therms.
FAQ: Thermal Energy Units
How many BTU is 1 Ton of AC?
In the refrigeration industry, 1 Ton of Refrigeration is equal to exactly 12,000 BTU/hr (or 3.517 kW).
Is BTU the same as kW?
No. BTU is a unit of energy, while kW is a unit of power (energy over time). However, in HVAC, "BTU" is often used as a shorthand for "BTU per hour" to describe cooling capacity.