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BTU/hr Calculation Formula:
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Pool heater sizing involves calculating the appropriate heating capacity (in BTU/hr) needed to efficiently heat your pool water to the desired temperature within a specific time frame. Proper sizing ensures optimal performance and energy efficiency.
The calculator uses the standard BTU/hr formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the British Thermal Units per hour required to heat the specified volume of water by the desired temperature difference within the given time period.
Details: Correct heater sizing is crucial for energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and optimal pool heating performance. An undersized heater will struggle to maintain temperature, while an oversized heater wastes energy and money.
Tips: Enter pool volume in gallons, desired temperature rise in °F, and preferred heat-up time in hours. All values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is a typical heat-up time for pools?
A: Most pools require 24-72 hours for initial heating, depending on pool size, heater capacity, and temperature difference.
Q2: How do I calculate my pool volume?
A: For rectangular pools: Length × Width × Average Depth × 7.5. For circular pools: Radius² × 3.14 × Average Depth × 7.5.
Q3: What temperature rise is typical?
A: Most pools are heated to 78-82°F. Temperature rise depends on starting water temperature and desired swimming comfort.
Q4: Should I consider heat loss factors?
A: Yes, this calculation provides minimum requirements. Add 10-20% for heat loss due to evaporation, wind, and ambient temperature differences.
Q5: What types of pool heaters are available?
A: Common types include gas heaters, heat pumps, solar heaters, and electric resistance heaters, each with different efficiency and capacity ratings.