Quick answer
For thermal capacity, 1 kW = 3,412.141633 BTU/h. A 12,000 BTU/h cooling capacity is approximately 3.52 thermal kW. That does not mean equipment draws 3.52 kW of electricity.
Comparison table
| Factor | BTU/h | kW |
|---|---|---|
| What it can describe | Usually a thermal capacity rate. | Thermal capacity or electrical input, depending on context. |
| Thermal conversion | 3,412.141633 BTU/h | 1 kW |
| Common use | U.S. product data and loads. | Metric-oriented capacity specifications and electrical data. |
| Required check | Whether the published number is capacity, input, or another performance measure. | |
Example: capacity is not consumption
A unit described as 7.03 thermal kW cooling capacity converts to about 24,000 BTU/h. Electrical input must come from the manufacturer’s performance data at the relevant operating condition; it is not found by converting the cooling-capacity value.
Use the right number
- Use thermal capacity when comparing a calculated load with equipment output.
- Use electrical input, voltage, current, and efficiency data for electrical supply or operating-cost questions.
- Use a documented load method before selecting capacity; conversion only changes units.
FAQ
Is kW on an HVAC label always electrical input?
No. It may describe thermal capacity or electrical input. Read the heading, units, and manufacturer documentation.
Can I convert kW to tons?
Yes, if the kW value is thermal capacity. Convert kW to BTU/h first, then divide by 12,000. Do not apply that path to electrical-input kW.