1. What is CFH to BTU/h Conversion?

The CFH (Cubic Feet per Hour) to BTU/h (British Thermal Units per Hour) conversion calculates the energy content of natural gas flow. This conversion is essential for sizing heating equipment, calculating fuel consumption, and energy management in HVAC and industrial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• \( CFH \) — Cubic feet per hour of natural gas flow
• \( 1030 \) — Average BTU content per cubic foot of natural gas
• \( BTU/h \) — British Thermal Units per hour output

Explanation: The formula multiplies the volume flow rate of natural gas by its energy density to determine the total energy output per hour.

3. Importance of CFH to BTU/h Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion is crucial for proper sizing of heating systems, boilers, furnaces, and other gas-fired equipment. It ensures efficient operation, prevents under-sizing or over-sizing, and helps in energy cost calculations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cubic feet per hour (CFH) value of natural gas flow. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the corresponding BTU per hour output.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 1030 used as the conversion factor?
A: 1030 BTU/ft³ is the average energy content of natural gas in the United States, though it can vary between 950-1150 BTU/ft³ depending on the gas composition and source.

Q2: What is CFH used for?
A: CFH measures the volume flow rate of natural gas and is used to size gas lines, regulators, and appliances to ensure adequate gas supply.

Q3: How accurate is this conversion?
A: The conversion provides a good estimate for most applications. For precise calculations, consult your gas utility for the exact BTU content of your natural gas supply.

Q4: Can this be used for propane or other gases?
A: No, this conversion is specific to natural gas. Propane has a higher energy density (approximately 2500 BTU/ft³) and requires a different conversion factor.

Q5: What are typical CFH values for household appliances?
A: Typical values range from 20-40 CFH for furnaces, 15-25 CFH for water heaters, and 5-15 CFH for ranges, depending on the BTU rating and efficiency.