How many BTUs per hour is equivalent to 1 watt?

The correct answer is 3,412 BTUs per hour is equivalent to 1 watt. This conversion is based on a specific relationship between electrical power and heat energy. The British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a unit of energy that is commonly used to measure heating and cooling capacities, whereas a watt is a unit of power representing the rate of energy transfer.

In heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) applications, understanding the conversion between watts and BTUs is crucial for selecting the right equipment and ensuring efficient operation. The defined conversion fact indicates that one watt generates approximately 3.412 BTUs of thermal energy per hour, which allows engineers and technicians to calculate the energy use and performance of systems accurately.

This knowledge is essential for designing HVAC systems that require a proper balance between energy consumption and thermal output, ensuring they meet demands while being cost-effective and environmentally responsible.