1. What is Heat Load Calculation?

Heat load calculation is the process of determining the total amount of heat energy that must be removed from a space to maintain comfortable temperature conditions. It is essential for proper HVAC system sizing and energy efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fundamental heat load equation:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Total heat load (BTU/h)
• \( Conduction \) — Heat transfer through building envelope
• \( Infiltration \) — Heat from air leakage
• \( Internal \) — Heat from occupants, lighting, and equipment
• \( Solar \) — Heat gain from solar radiation

Explanation: Each component represents a different source of heat gain that contributes to the total cooling load requirement.

3. Importance of Heat Load Calculation

Details: Accurate heat load calculation is crucial for proper HVAC system design, energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and preventing equipment oversizing or undersizing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter each component value in BTU/h. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator sums all components to provide the total heat load.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is conduction heat load?
A: Conduction is heat transfer through walls, roofs, windows, and floors due to temperature difference between inside and outside.

Q2: How is infiltration calculated?
A: Infiltration = CFM × 1.08 × ΔT, where CFM is air leakage rate and ΔT is temperature difference.

Q3: What includes internal heat load?
A: Internal load includes heat from people (250-400 BTU/h each), lighting, computers, appliances, and other equipment.

Q4: How does solar load vary?
A: Solar load depends on window orientation, size, shading, glass type, time of day, and season.

Q5: Why is accurate calculation important?
A: Proper calculation ensures efficient system operation, prevents moisture problems, and maintains comfortable indoor conditions.