1. What is BTU?

BTU (British Thermal Unit) is a traditional unit of heat defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In New Zealand, heat pump capacities are often rated in kW, while some manufacturers use BTU.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple conversion formula:

Where:

• 1 kW = 3412 BTU/h
• 6 kW = 20,472 BTU/h (standard NZ heat pump size)

Explanation: This conversion allows you to compare heat pump capacities between kW and BTU ratings.

3. Importance of BTU Calculation

Details: Understanding BTU equivalent helps when comparing heat pumps from different manufacturers or countries that may use different rating systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the heat pump's kW rating (typically 5-10 kW for NZ homes). The default value of 6 kW represents a common size for New Zealand homes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 6 kW common in NZ?
A: 6 kW (20,472 BTU) heat pumps are well-suited for most NZ homes, providing efficient heating for areas of 50-80m².

Q2: How many BTU do I need for my home?
A: As a rough guide, NZ homes need about 80-100W (273-341 BTU) per m² of floor area, depending on insulation.

Q3: What's the difference between BTU and BTU/h?
A: Heat pump ratings are technically in BTU per hour (BTU/h), though often shortened to just "BTU".

Q4: Are inverter heat pumps rated differently?
A: Inverter models show maximum capacity - their actual output varies with conditions, but the BTU conversion remains the same.

Q5: Should I get a bigger heat pump for very cold areas?
A: In colder South Island areas, consider a slightly larger unit (e.g., 7-8 kW) as heat pumps lose efficiency in very cold temperatures.