Home Back

CFM Calculator

CFM Formula:

\[ CFM = \frac{Volume \times ACH}{60} \]

ft³
air changes per hour

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is CFM?

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) is a measurement of airflow volume, indicating how many cubic feet of air pass by a stationary point in one minute. It's commonly used in HVAC systems and ventilation calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the CFM formula:

\[ CFM = \frac{Volume \times ACH}{60} \]

Where:

Explanation: This formula calculates the required airflow in cubic feet per minute needed to achieve a specified number of air changes per hour in a given room volume.

3. Importance of CFM Calculation

Details: Proper CFM calculation is essential for designing effective ventilation systems, ensuring adequate air quality, meeting building codes, and optimizing energy efficiency in HVAC systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter room volume in cubic feet and desired air changes per hour. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will determine the required CFM for your ventilation system.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical ACH values for different rooms?
A: Residential rooms: 2-4 ACH, kitchens: 6-8 ACH, bathrooms: 8-10 ACH, commercial spaces: 4-12 ACH depending on occupancy and use.

Q2: How do I calculate room volume?
A: Multiply length × width × height of the room (all in feet) to get cubic feet volume.

Q3: Why divide by 60 in the formula?
A: Because ACH is per hour, but CFM is per minute. Dividing by 60 converts from hourly rate to minute rate.

Q4: What factors affect required CFM?
A: Room size, occupancy, activities in the room, local building codes, and specific air quality requirements.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for HVAC system sizing?
A: Yes, this provides the basic airflow requirement, though professional HVAC design should consider additional factors like ductwork, static pressure, and system efficiency.

CFM Calculator© - All Rights Reserved 2025