Conversion factors
1 BTU/h = 0.2931 W 1 W = 3.412 BTU/h
1 kW = 3,412 BTU/h 1 ton (cooling) = 12,000 BTU/h = 3.517 kW
1 kcal/h = 1.163 W 1 hp = 745.7 W
Common equipment
| Equipment | BTU/h | kW |
|---|---|---|
| 2 kW diesel air heater | 6,800 | 2.0 |
| 5 kW diesel air heater | 17,100 | 5.0 |
| RV roof air conditioner (cooling) | 13,500–15,000 | 4.0–4.4 |
| Portable propane heater (low–high) | 4,000–18,000 | 1.2–5.3 |
| Small wood stove | 15,000–35,000 | 4.4–10 |
Cooling BTU isn't electrical watts
An air conditioner rated at 13,500 BTU/h moves about 4 kW of heat, but it only draws about 1.2–1.6 kW of electricity, because air conditioners are heat pumps. For the electrical load, check the running watts on its label.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts is 5000 BTU?
5,000 BTU/h is about 1,465 W (1.47 kW) of heating or cooling output.
How many BTU is a 2kW heater?
About 6,824 BTU/h.