Electric Panel Heater Calculator

BTU Calculation Formula:

\[ BTU = Watts \times 3.412 \div Efficiency \]

BTU (BTU/hr):

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1. What is the Electric Panel Heater Calculator?

The Electric Panel Heater Calculator estimates the heating capacity in BTU (British Thermal Units) from electrical input power and efficiency. It helps determine the actual heating output of electric panel heaters based on their specifications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BTU calculation formula:

\[ BTU = Watts \times 3.412 \div Efficiency \]

Where:

\( Watts \) — Electrical input power in watts
\( 3.412 \) — Conversion factor from watts to BTU/hr
\( Efficiency \) — Heater efficiency as a percentage
\( BTU \) — Heating output in British Thermal Units per hour

Explanation: The formula converts electrical power to thermal output while accounting for the heater's efficiency to determine the actual heat delivered.

3. Importance of BTU Calculation

Details: Accurate BTU calculation is crucial for proper heating system sizing, energy efficiency assessment, and ensuring adequate heating capacity for specific spaces.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the heater's wattage rating and efficiency percentage. Both values must be positive numbers, with efficiency between 0-100%.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the conversion factor 3.412?
A: 3.412 is the conversion factor from watts to BTU/hr, where 1 watt = 3.412 BTU per hour.

Q2: What is typical efficiency for electric panel heaters?
A: Most electric panel heaters have efficiencies between 95-100% since they convert nearly all electrical energy directly to heat.

Q3: How does this differ from heat pump calculations?
A: Heat pumps can have efficiencies over 100% (COP > 1) due to moving heat rather than generating it, while electric resistance heaters typically have ~100% efficiency.

Q4: Why calculate BTU output for heating systems?
A: BTU calculation helps determine if a heater is properly sized for a space and ensures efficient energy use and comfortable heating.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for other electric heaters?
A: Yes, this formula applies to any electric resistance heating system including baseboard heaters, radiant heaters, and electric furnaces.