AC Power Conversion:
From: | To: |
The conversion from British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/hr) to horsepower (HP) for air conditioning systems helps understand the mechanical power equivalent of cooling capacity.
The calculator uses the following conversion:
Where:
Explanation: First converts BTU/hr to tons of cooling, then converts tons to horsepower.
Details: Understanding the relationship between cooling capacity (BTU) and mechanical power (HP) is essential for system sizing, energy efficiency analysis, and equipment selection.
Tips: Enter the BTU/hr rating of your AC unit. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will provide the equivalent horsepower.
Q1: Why 12,000 BTU/hr per ton?
A: This is the standard definition - 1 ton of refrigeration equals the cooling effect of melting 1 ton of ice in 24 hours (12,000 BTU/hr).
Q2: How accurate is this conversion?
A: This provides a theoretical conversion. Actual system performance depends on efficiency (SEER/EER ratings).
Q3: What's the difference between HP and BTU?
A: HP measures mechanical power, BTU measures thermal energy. This conversion shows the mechanical power needed to produce equivalent cooling.
Q4: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, the conversion applies to any system rated in BTU/hr, but remember heating and cooling capacities may differ.
Q5: What about compressor HP vs system BTU?
A: This calculates theoretical equivalent HP. Actual compressor HP will be less due to system efficiency.