Electric Heating Calculator UK

Electric Heating Power Formula:

\[ kW = \frac{Volume \times \Delta T \times specific\ heat}{time \times efficiency} \]

Volume:

m³

Temperature Change (ΔT):

°C

Specific Heat:

J/m³°C

Time:

hours

Efficiency:

decimal

Required Heating Power:

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1. What is the Electric Heating Calculator?

The Electric Heating Calculator estimates the required heating power in kilowatts (kW) based on room volume, desired temperature change, specific heat capacity, heating time, and system efficiency. This helps determine appropriate electric heating system sizing for UK homes and buildings.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electric heating power formula:

\[ kW = \frac{Volume \times \Delta T \times specific\ heat}{time \times efficiency} \]

Where:

\( Volume \) — Room volume in cubic meters (m³)
\( \Delta T \) — Desired temperature change in degrees Celsius (°C)
\( specific\ heat \) — Heat capacity of air (typically 1200 J/m³°C)
\( time \) — Heating time in hours
\( efficiency \) — System efficiency as decimal (0.0-1.0)

Explanation: The formula calculates the energy required to heat a specific volume of air by a certain temperature, then converts it to power requirements considering system efficiency.

3. Importance of Heating Power Calculation

Details: Accurate heating power calculation is crucial for proper system sizing, energy efficiency, cost estimation, and ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures while avoiding under or over-sized heating systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter room volume in cubic meters, desired temperature increase, specific heat (default 1200 J/m³°C for air), heating time in hours, and system efficiency as decimal. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical specific heat value for air?
A: For standard air at room temperature, the specific heat is approximately 1200 J/m³°C. This may vary slightly with humidity and altitude.

Q2: How do I calculate room volume?
A: Multiply room length × width × height in meters. For irregular rooms, divide into regular shapes and sum the volumes.

Q3: What is a typical efficiency for electric heaters?
A: Most electric heaters have 95-100% efficiency since they convert nearly all electrical energy to heat. Heat pumps can have efficiencies over 300%.

Q4: How does insulation affect heating requirements?
A: This calculator provides the power needed to heat the air initially. For continuous heating, consider heat loss through walls, windows, and ventilation, which requires additional calculations.

Q5: Is this suitable for commercial buildings?
A: Yes, but for large commercial spaces, professional HVAC calculations considering building materials, occupancy, and local climate are recommended.