BTU to kW Converter
BTU to kW Converter
Instantly convert BTU per hour (BTU/h) to kilowatts (kW) using our simple and accurate online tool.
BTU to kW: Understanding Heat & Power Conversion
When you are buying an air conditioner or a heater, you are essentially buying “power.” In some parts of the world, that power is measured in BTUs, while in others, it’s measured in kilowatts (kW).
Converting between the two isn’t just about math—it’s about making sure you don’t buy a machine that is too weak for your room or one that wastes energy.
The Numbers Behind the Conversion
To move from British Thermal Units (per hour) to Kilowatts, you need one specific constant: 3,412.14.
- The Divide Method: Take your total BTU and divide it by 3,412.
- The Multiply Method: Take your total BTU and multiply by 0.000293.
The Simple Formula:
$$kW = \frac{BTU}{3412.14}$$
Real-World Example: Sizing an AC
Imagine you have a large bedroom that requires a 12,000 BTU unit (often called a “1-ton” unit). To find out what that looks like in kilowatts:
- Start with 12,000.
- Divide by 3,412.14.
- Result: ~3.52 kW.
This means a 12,000 BTU unit is equivalent to a 3.5 kW cooling system. Knowing this allows you to compare different brands that might use different units on their packaging.
Quick Reference Guide
Instead of reaching for a calculator every time, keep these common conversions in mind:
| BTU Capacity | Kilowatts (kW) | Best For: |
| 5,000 | 1.46 | Small home offices |
| 7,000 | 2.05 | Spare bedrooms |
| 9,000 | 2.63 | Average master bedrooms |
| 18,000 | 5.27 | Large open-plan lounges |
| 24,000 | 7.03 | Small shops or cafes |
Why “kW” Can Be Confusing
A common mistake is confusing Cooling/Heating kW with Electrical kW.
- Cooling kW: This is the “output”—how much heat the machine can move.
- Electrical kW: This is the “input”—how much money you’ll pay the power company to run it.Always check which one the label is referring to!