1. What is BTU/h?

BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour) is a measurement of heating capacity. It indicates how much heat energy a heating unit can produce in one hour.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Area to be heated in square feet
• \( 35 \) — Standard multiplier for moderate climates

Explanation: The calculation provides a basic estimate of heating requirements for a space.

3. Importance of Proper Heating Unit Size

Details: Properly sizing your heating unit ensures energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. An undersized unit will struggle to heat the space, while an oversized unit will cycle on and off too frequently.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your space accurately in square feet. For rooms with high ceilings, poor insulation, or in very cold climates, you may need to increase the multiplier.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is 35 BTU/sq ft appropriate for all climates?
A: No, this is a moderate climate estimate. Use 30 for mild climates, 40 for cold climates, and 50 for very cold climates.

Q2: What if my room has high ceilings?
A: Multiply the area by the ceiling height (in feet) divided by 8 to adjust for volume rather than just area.

Q3: Does insulation affect the calculation?
A: Yes, poorly insulated spaces may require 10-20% more BTU/h than calculated.

Q4: What about windows and exterior walls?
A: Each window or exterior wall may require additional 1000-2000 BTU/h depending on size and insulation.

Q5: Is this calculation for central heating or space heaters?
A: This provides a per-room estimate. For whole-house systems, consult an HVAC professional.