BTU/h to kW, Tons & Horsepower Converter
Equipment capacity is quoted in BTU/h in North America, kW in most other markets and tons for cooling. Enter any one and see the rest.
Free tool
Result
Enter values to calculate.
Formula
- 1 kW = 3,412.14 BTU/h
- 1 ton of refrigeration = 12,000 BTU/h = 3.517 kW
- 1 hp = 745.7 W
Example calculation
A 36,000 BTU/h air conditioner = 3 tons = 10.55 kW.
Practical HVAC use
Compare furnace, heat pump and air conditioner capacities from different manufacturers, or check heater kW against a heating load.
Common mistakes
- Treating BTU (energy) and BTU/h (rate) as the same thing.
- Assuming a nominal tonnage is the actual delivered capacity at your conditions.
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Educational tool. Results are estimates from the stated formulas; always confirm with manufacturer data and the code adopted in your jurisdiction. All calculators