Water Cooling Capacity Calculator

Flow Rate (GPM)	Temperature Difference (°F)	Cooling Capacity (BTU/hr)	Cooling Capacity (kW)
1	5	2,500	0.733
1	10	5,000	1.466
2	5	5,000	1.466
2	10	10,000	2.932
3	5	7,500	2.199
3	10	15,000	4.399
4	5	10,000	2.932
4	10	20,000	5.864
5	5	12,500	3.665
5	10	25,000	7.330

This table provides the cooling capacity in both BTU/hr and kilowatts (kW) for different flow rates (GPM) and temperature differences (ΔT in °F). Please note that the values in the table are approximate and can vary based on specific equipment and environmental conditions. The cooling capacity is calculated using the formula mentioned earlier:

Cooling Capacity (BTU/hr) = Flow Rate (GPM) × Temperature Difference (°F) × 500

Cooling Capacity (kW) = Cooling Capacity (BTU/hr) ÷ 3412

The values in the table can be useful in selecting the appropriate cooling capacity for a water cooling system based on specific cooling requirements.

FAQs

How do you calculate the cooling capacity of water?

The cooling capacity of water refers to the amount of heat energy that can be absorbed or removed by a given volume of water to lower its temperature. The formula to calculate cooling capacity is:

Cooling Capacity (in BTU/hr) = Flow Rate (in GPM) × Temperature Difference (in °F) × 500

Where:

• Flow Rate: The rate at which water flows through the system in gallons per minute (GPM).
• Temperature Difference: The difference between the inlet and outlet water temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit (°F).
• 500: A constant used to convert the result to BTUs per hour.

What is the formula for calculating cooling capacity?

The formula to calculate cooling capacity varies depending on the medium (air or water) and the system in question. For water cooling capacity, it’s the one mentioned above. For air cooling capacity, it’s:

Cooling Capacity (in BTU/hr) = Air Flow Rate (in CFM) × Temperature Difference (in °F) × 1.08

Where:

• Air Flow Rate: The rate at which air flows through the system in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
• Temperature Difference: The difference between the inlet and outlet air temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit (°F).
• 1.08: A constant used to convert the result to BTUs per hour.

How do you calculate the KW capacity of chilled water?

To calculate the KW (kilowatt) capacity of chilled water, you can use the formula:

KW Capacity = Flow Rate (in GPM) × Density of Water (in lbs/gal) × Specific Heat Capacity of Water (in BTU/lb °F) × Temperature Difference (in °F) ÷ 12,000

Where:

• Flow Rate: The rate at which water flows through the system in gallons per minute (GPM).
• Density of Water: The density of water is approximately 8.34 lbs/gal.
• Specific Heat Capacity of Water: The specific heat capacity of water is approximately 1 BTU/lb °F.
• Temperature Difference: The difference between the inlet and outlet water temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit (°F).
• 12,000: A constant used to convert the result from BTUs per hour to kilowatts.

How do you calculate the cooling rate of a liquid?

The cooling rate of a liquid depends on various factors, including the initial temperature of the liquid, the temperature of the surrounding environment, the surface area exposed to the environment, and the thermal properties of the liquid (specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity). The rate of cooling can be described by Newton’s Law of Cooling, which states that the rate of change of temperature of an object is proportional to the difference in temperature between the object and its surroundings.

The formula for Newton’s Law of Cooling is:

Q/t = -h × A × ΔT

Where:

• Q/t: Rate of heat transfer (cooling rate) in watts (W).
• h: Heat transfer coefficient for the specific system in W/(m²·K).
• A: Surface area exposed to the environment in square meters (m²).
• ΔT: Temperature difference between the initial temperature of the liquid and the temperature of the surrounding environment in Kelvin (K).

Please note that calculating the cooling rate for a specific liquid in a practical scenario might involve more complex considerations and experimental data.

How much cooling capacity do I need?

The required cooling capacity depends on the specific application and the heat load that needs to be removed. To determine the cooling capacity needed, you’ll need to consider factors such as:

1. The size and thermal characteristics of the space or system you want to cool.
2. The ambient temperature in the area where the cooling is required.
3. The heat generated by equipment or processes within the space.
4. The insulation and sealing of the space, which affects heat exchange with the external environment.
5. Safety margins to ensure sufficient cooling under peak loads.

For residential cooling, a common rule of thumb is to aim for around 20 BTU per square foot of living space. However, for commercial or industrial applications, it’s best to consult with an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) professional to perform a proper heat load calculation and determine the required cooling capacity.

How do you convert cooling capacity?

To convert cooling capacity from BTU/hr to kilowatts (kW):

1 kW = 3412 BTU/hr

To convert cooling capacity from kilowatts (kW) to BTU/hr:

1 kW = 3412 BTU/hr

What is cooling capacity 100%?

Cooling capacity 100% usually refers to the maximum cooling capacity that a cooling system can provide under optimal conditions. It means the system is operating at its full capacity to cool a given space or remove heat from a particular process. This value is important when considering the peak cooling demand and sizing the cooling equipment accordingly.

How do you calculate CFM for cooling?

To calculate the required CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) for cooling, you need to know the heat load in BTU/hr that needs to be removed and the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet air.

Required CFM = (Heat Load in BTU/hr) ÷ (1.08 × Temperature Difference in °F)

Where:

• Heat Load: The amount of heat that needs to be removed from the space or system in BTU per hour.
• 1.08: A constant used in the formula to convert the result to CFM.

This calculation is based on the assumption of sensible cooling (temperature reduction) without considering humidity control.

What is total cooling capacity?

Total cooling capacity refers to the maximum amount of heat energy a cooling system can remove or absorb from a given space or process. It is typically measured in BTU per hour or kilowatts (kW). The total cooling capacity takes into account both sensible heat (temperature reduction) and latent heat (humidity removal) if the system is capable of dehumidification.

What is cooling capacity in kW?

Cooling capacity in kW refers to the amount of heat energy a cooling system can remove or absorb from a given space or process, measured in kilowatts. It represents the cooling output of the system and is commonly used to rate the performance of air conditioners, chillers, and other cooling equipment.

How much cooling capacity per kW?

The cooling capacity per kW depends on the efficiency and design of the cooling system. It is expressed as the number of BTU (British Thermal Units) of cooling per hour that the system can provide for each kilowatt (kW) of electricity consumed.

For example, a cooling system with a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU/hr and an input power of 1 kW would have a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU/hr per kW.

How many kW per ton is a typical chiller?

A typical chiller has a cooling capacity rated in tons of refrigeration. One ton of refrigeration is equivalent to 12,000 BTU/hr or approximately 3.516 kilowatts (kW) of cooling capacity. So, for a typical chiller, the ratio is approximately:

1 ton ≈ 3.516 kW

This can vary depending on the efficiency and design of the specific chiller.

What is the cooling rate of water?

The cooling rate of water depends on various factors, including the initial temperature of the water, the temperature of the surrounding environment, the surface area exposed to the environment, and the thermal properties of water (specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity). Like the cooling rate of a liquid mentioned earlier, the rate of cooling for water can be described by Newton’s Law of Cooling.

What is the relationship between flow rate and cooling capacity?

The relationship between flow rate and cooling capacity varies depending on the medium (water or air) and the specific system. In general, for water cooling systems, a higher flow rate can increase the cooling capacity as it allows more water to pass through the system, carrying away more heat. However, excessively high flow rates can reduce the time water spends in the cooling system, limiting heat transfer effectiveness.

For air cooling systems, a higher airflow rate can also increase the cooling capacity as it enhances the heat exchange between the air and the cooling medium (e.g., a radiator or a heat exchanger).

What unit is used to measure cooling capacity?

Cooling capacity is typically measured in units of British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/hr) or kilowatts (kW). In some cases, it can also be measured in tons of refrigeration, where one ton is equivalent to 12,000 BTU/hr.

How much cooling capacity per ton?

As mentioned earlier, one ton of refrigeration is equivalent to 12,000 BTU/hr or approximately 3.516 kilowatts (kW) of cooling capacity.

How much cooling capacity per square foot?

The cooling capacity required per square foot varies depending on the application and the desired level of comfort. For residential cooling, a common rule of thumb is around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. So, for a 1,000 square foot area, you would need approximately 20,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity.

For commercial or industrial applications, the cooling capacity per square foot may be higher, and it’s best to perform a proper heat load calculation to determine the specific requirements.

How many CFM per square foot?

The CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) per square foot depends on the ventilation needs of the space. For general comfort cooling, a common rule of thumb is around 1 CFM per square foot. However, this value can vary based on factors such as the number of occupants, equipment, and specific cooling requirements.

How many tons of cooling per cubic foot?

Cooling capacity is typically not measured per cubic foot directly. The cooling capacity required for a specific space is determined based on factors like the area (square footage), the heat load, and other considerations. The capacity is then expressed in BTU/hr or tons of refrigeration.

What does 5000 watts of cooling capacity mean?

5000 watts of cooling capacity means that the cooling system can remove or absorb 5000 watts (or 5 kilowatts) of heat energy from the space or process in one hour. This value can be expressed as 5000 BTU/hr or approximately 1.43 tons of refrigeration.

What is the difference between cooling load and cooling capacity?

• Cooling Load: Cooling load refers to the amount of heat energy that needs to be removed from a space or process to maintain a desired temperature and comfort level. It takes into account factors like ambient temperature, solar radiation, heat generated by equipment, and insulation properties of the space. Cooling load is measured in BTU/hr or kilowatts (kW).
• Cooling Capacity: Cooling capacity, on the other hand, is the ability of a cooling system to remove or absorb heat from a space or process. It is a measure of the cooling system’s performance and is also measured in BTU/hr or kilowatts (kW).

In summary, cooling load describes the heat that needs to be removed, while cooling capacity describes the system’s ability to remove that heat.

How many BTU per person for cooling?

The cooling load per person varies depending on factors such as activity level, clothing, and the environment. As a general rule of thumb for residential spaces, you can consider an average cooling load of about 6000 to 7000 BTU/hr per person. However, this value can be lower or higher depending on specific circumstances.

How do you convert BTU to cooling capacity?

To convert BTUs (British Thermal Units) to cooling capacity in kilowatts (kW):

1 kW = 3412 BTU/hr

To convert BTUs to cooling capacity in tons of refrigeration:

1 ton ≈ 12,000 BTU/hr

What does 1 ton cooling capacity mean?

One ton of cooling capacity is equivalent to the ability to remove 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) of heat energy per hour. It is a common unit used in the air conditioning and refrigeration industries to rate the capacity of cooling systems.

How many CFM do I need to cool 100 square feet?

The required CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) to cool 100 square feet depends on the cooling load and the specific cooling requirements of the space. As a rough estimate, you can consider around 100 CFM for a typical residential application. However, for more accurate results, it’s best to perform a proper heat load calculation.

What does 400 CFM mean?

400 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) refers to the rate at which air flows through a ventilation or cooling system. It indicates that 400 cubic feet of air passes through the system every minute.

How do you calculate cooling capacity of airflow?

To calculate the cooling capacity of airflow, you need to know the air volume flow rate (in CFM) and the temperature difference between the incoming and outgoing air (in °F). The formula is:

Cooling Capacity (in BTU/hr) = Air Flow Rate (in CFM) × Temperature Difference (in °F) × 1.08

Where:

• Air Flow Rate: The rate at which air flows through the system in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
• Temperature Difference: The difference between the inlet and outlet air temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit (°F).
• 1.08: A constant used to convert the result to BTUs per hour.

What cooling capacity is 24000?

It is not clear what “24000” refers to in this context. Cooling capacity is typically expressed in BTU/hr or kilowatts (kW). If “24000” represents BTU/hr, then it means the cooling capacity is 24,000 BTU/hr.

What is the cooling capacity of 2500W?

To convert cooling capacity from watts (W) to BTU/hr:

1 W ≈ 3.412 BTU/hr

So, if you have 2500 watts of cooling capacity, you would have approximately:

2500 W ≈ 8530 BTU/hr

How much cooling capacity is 10,000 BTU?

To convert cooling capacity from BTU/hr to watts (W):

1 W ≈ 3.412 BTU/hr

So, if you have 10,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity, you would have approximately:

10,000 BTU/hr ≈ 2930 W

How do you calculate cooling capacity in Watts?

To calculate cooling capacity in watts (W), you need to know the cooling capacity in BTU/hr and then convert it to watts using the conversion factor:

1 W ≈ 3.412 BTU/hr

Cooling Capacity (in W) = Cooling Capacity (in BTU/hr) × 3.412

What is 2.5 kW in cooling?

2.5 kW in cooling refers to the cooling capacity of a cooling system, which is 2.5 kilowatts. It means the system can remove or absorb 2.5 kilowatts of heat energy from a space or process.

How many tons is 10 kW cooling capacity?

To convert cooling capacity from kilowatts (kW) to tons of refrigeration:

1 ton ≈ 3.516 kW

So, if you have 10 kW of cooling capacity, you would have approximately:

10 kW ≈ 2.84 tons

How many HP is 1 kW cooling capacity?

To convert cooling capacity from kilowatts (kW) to horsepower (HP):

1 kW ≈ 1.341 HP

So, if you have 1 kW of cooling capacity, you would have approximately:

1 kW ≈ 1.341 HP

How many kW cooling is 18000 BTU?

To convert cooling capacity from BTU/hr to kilowatts (kW):

1 kW ≈ 3412 BTU/hr

So, if you have 18,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity, you would have approximately:

18,000 BTU/hr ≈ 5.27 kW

How many kw is a 5 ton chiller?

To convert cooling capacity from tons of refrigeration to kilowatts (kW):

1 ton ≈ 3.516 kW

So, a 5-ton chiller would have approximately:

5 tons ≈ 17.58 kW

How much cooling capacity does a 5 ton chiller have?

A 5-ton chiller has a cooling capacity of approximately 60,000 BTU/hr or 17.58 kilowatts (kW).

How big is a 50 ton chiller?

A 50-ton chiller has a cooling capacity of approximately 600,000 BTU/hr or 175.8 kilowatts (kW).

Why is water cooling so expensive?

Water cooling can be more expensive compared to air cooling for several reasons:

1. Initial Cost: Water cooling systems typically require more components, such as water blocks, radiators, pumps, reservoirs, and tubing, which can increase the upfront cost.
2. Installation Complexity: Setting up a water cooling system can be more complicated and time-consuming than installing air cooling solutions, which may require professional expertise.
3. Maintenance: Water cooling systems need regular maintenance, including coolant replacement and checking for leaks, which can add to the overall cost.
4. Performance and Aesthetics: Water cooling systems are often chosen for their superior cooling performance and aesthetics, which may come at a premium.

What cools faster water or air?

Water has a higher specific heat capacity than air, which means it can absorb and retain more heat energy for a given temperature change. Therefore, water has the ability to cool slower than air. However, water can also transfer heat more efficiently due to its higher thermal conductivity. In practical cooling applications, the rate of cooling depends on various factors, including the specific conditions, surface area, and the thermal properties of the materials involved.

Is water cooling cheaper than air cooling?

In general, air cooling solutions are more cost-effective and straightforward to set up compared to water cooling systems. Air coolers usually consist of fans and heatsinks, which are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. On the other hand, water cooling systems involve additional components like water blocks, radiators, pumps, and tubing, which can increase the cost and complexity of the setup.

What affects cooling capacity?

Several factors can affect cooling capacity:

1. Cooling Medium: The type and properties of the cooling medium, whether air or water, influence the cooling capacity.
2. Flow Rate: In water cooling systems, the flow rate affects how much heat the system can transfer.
3. Temperature Difference: A higher temperature difference between the cooling medium and the heat source increases the cooling capacity.
4. Surface Area: A larger surface area for heat exchange enhances the cooling capacity.
5. Thermal Conductivity: Materials with higher thermal conductivity enable more efficient heat transfer and, thus, higher cooling capacity.
6. Insulation and Sealing: Proper insulation and sealing of the space or system prevent heat exchange with the external environment, improving cooling capacity.
7. Ambient Temperature: The ambient temperature affects the system’s ability to dissipate heat.

Does increasing flow rate increase temperature?

Increasing flow rate typically does not increase the temperature of the cooling medium itself. However, it may result in a higher temperature rise (temperature difference) between the cooling medium and the heat source, which can improve cooling efficiency.

Is capacity the same as flow rate?

Capacity and flow rate are related but not the same. Capacity generally refers to the ability of a system to handle a certain amount of heat load or the total amount of cooling provided by the system. It is usually measured in BTU/hr or kilowatts (kW). On the other hand, flow rate refers to the rate at which the cooling medium (air or water) flows through the system and is typically measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or gallons per minute (GPM).

Why is cooling capacity measured in tons?

Cooling capacity is sometimes measured in tons of refrigeration because of historical reasons. In the early days of air conditioning, ice was used to cool spaces. One ton of refrigeration referred to the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours, which is approximately 12,000 BTU/hr. This measurement convention has persisted in the industry, and cooling systems are still often rated in tons.

How many tons of cooling do I need for 1200 square feet?

The cooling capacity needed for 1200 square feet depends on various factors, such as the heat load, insulation, and specific cooling requirements. As a rough estimate, for residential cooling, you can consider around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. So, for a 1200 square foot area, you would need approximately:

1200 sq ft × 20 BTU/hr per sq ft = 24,000 BTU/hr

How many tons does it take to cool 2000 square feet?

Following the same rule of thumb for residential cooling, you can consider around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. So, for a 2000 square foot area, you would need approximately:

2000 sq ft × 20 BTU/hr per sq ft = 40,000 BTU/hr

How many tons does it take to cool 500 square feet?

Following the same rule of thumb for residential cooling, you can consider around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. So, for a 500 square foot area, you would need approximately:

500 sq ft × 20 BTU/hr per sq ft = 10,000 BTU/hr

How many tons of cooling for 3000 sq ft?

Following the same rule of thumb for residential cooling, you can consider around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. So, for a 3000 square foot area, you would need approximately:

3000 sq ft × 20 BTU/hr per sq ft = 60,000 BTU/hr

How many tons of cooling for 700 square feet?

Following the same rule of thumb for residential cooling, you can consider around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. So, for a 700 square foot area, you would need approximately:

700 sq ft × 20 BTU/hr per sq ft = 14,000 BTU/hr

How many tons of cooling for 1500 square feet?

Following the same rule of thumb for residential cooling, you can consider around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. So, for a 1500 square foot area, you would need approximately:

1500 sq ft × 20 BTU/hr per sq ft = 30,000 BTU/hr

What is the rule of thumb for CFM per square foot?

For general comfort cooling, a common rule of thumb for CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) per square foot is around 1 CFM per square foot.

How many CFM do I need for 50 square feet?

Following the rule of thumb for comfort cooling, you would need approximately 50 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) for a 50 square foot area.

How many CFM do I need for 80 square feet?

Following the rule of thumb for comfort cooling, you would need approximately 80 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) for an 80 square foot area.

What is the rule of thumb for HVAC sizing?

The rule of thumb for HVAC sizing varies depending on the application (residential or commercial) and the specific requirements. For residential cooling, a common rule of thumb is around 20 BTU/hr per square foot. For heating, a rule of thumb is about 25-35 BTU/hr per square foot. However, it’s important to note that these are rough estimates and may not account for all factors influencing the heat load.

For more accurate HVAC sizing, it is best to perform a proper heat load calculation that takes into account factors such as insulation, orientation, windows, occupancy, and heat-generating equipment.

What is the rule of thumb for HVAC duct sizing?

The rule of thumb for HVAC duct sizing is to have a duct size that accommodates the required airflow (CFM) based on the cooling or heating load of the space. The exact sizing depends on various factors, such as the size of the space, the number of supply and return vents, and the total airflow needed.

How many watts is 1 ton cooling capacity?

One ton of cooling capacity is approximately 3.516 kilowatts (kW). To convert kilowatts to watts:

1 kW = 1000 W

So, 1 ton of cooling capacity is equivalent to approximately:

1 ton ≈ 3516 W

How many BTUs is 1 kW cooling capacity?

To convert cooling capacity from kilowatts (kW) to BTU/hr:

1 kW ≈ 3412 BTU/hr

So, 1 kW of cooling capacity is approximately:

1 kW ≈ 3412 BTU/hr

How many BTUs do I need to cool 625 square feet?

Following the rule of thumb for residential cooling (around 20 BTU/hr per square foot), you would need approximately:

625 sq ft × 20 BTU/hr per sq ft = 12,500 BTU/hr

What is actual cooling capacity?

Actual cooling capacity refers to the measured or observed cooling output of a cooling system under specific operating conditions. It takes into account the efficiency and performance of the cooling equipment in real-world conditions.

What is CFM in cooling load?

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) is a measure of the airflow rate in a ventilation or cooling system. In cooling load calculations, CFM is used to determine the amount of air required to remove the heat load from the space or process.

What does it mean if cooling capacity is high?

A high cooling capacity means that the cooling system can remove or absorb a larger amount of heat energy from a space or process. It indicates that the system is more powerful and capable of providing efficient cooling.

What is the best BTU for cooling?

The best BTU for cooling depends on the specific cooling requirements of the space or application. It’s essential to consider factors such as the size of the area, the heat load, insulation, and the number of occupants or equipment generating heat. A properly sized cooling system that matches the cooling needs of the space will be the most effective and efficient.

How many BTU do I need to cool 2000 cubic feet?

To determine the BTU required to cool a volume of air (cubic feet), you would need to consider the heat load and the desired temperature difference between the ambient air and the cooled air.

Is 50000 BTU enough?

Whether 50,000 BTU is enough for cooling depends on the size and heat load of the space. For residential cooling, 50,000 BTU/hr is a substantial cooling capacity and should be sufficient for a relatively large area. However, it’s best to perform a proper heat load calculation to determine the specific cooling requirements accurately.

How many BTUs is 2 tons of cooling?

As mentioned earlier, one ton of cooling capacity is approximately 12,000 BTU/hr. So, 2 tons of cooling capacity would be:

2 tons × 12,000 BTU/hr per ton = 24,000 BTU/hr

How do you calculate BTU capacity?

To calculate BTU capacity, you need to know the heat load in the system or space you want to cool. The formula to calculate BTU capacity is:

BTU Capacity = Flow Rate (CFM) × Temperature Difference (°F) × 1.08

Where:

• Flow Rate: The rate at which air flows through the system in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
• Temperature Difference: The difference between the inlet and outlet air temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit (°F).
• 1.08: A constant used to convert the result to BTUs per hour.

How many BTUs per hour is one cooling ton?

One cooling ton is approximately equal to 12,000 BTU per hour (BTU/hr).

How many square feet can one ton of cooling cool?

The cooling capacity of one ton of cooling can vary based on factors like the climate, insulation, and specific cooling requirements. As a rough estimate for residential cooling, one ton of cooling can typically cool around 400-500 square feet of space.

How much can a 3-ton cool?

A 3-ton cooling capacity can typically cool around 1200-1500 square feet of space in a residential setting, depending on factors such as the heat load and insulation.