1. What is the Garage Furnace BTU Calculator?

The Garage Furnace BTU Calculator helps determine the appropriate heating capacity needed for your garage space. It calculates the required BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour based on garage volume and desired temperature difference.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the garage furnace BTU equation:

Where:

• \( Volume \) — Garage volume in cubic feet (ft³)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature difference between desired indoor temperature and outdoor temperature (°F)
• \( 0.033 \) — Standard heating factor for garage spaces

Explanation: This equation accounts for the cubic volume of your garage and the temperature difference you need to maintain, providing the heating capacity required in BTU per hour.

3. Importance of Proper BTU Calculation

Details: Accurate BTU calculation ensures you select a furnace that properly heats your garage without being underpowered (inadequate heating) or overpowered (energy waste and poor humidity control).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your garage dimensions to calculate volume (length × width × height). Determine ΔT by subtracting your area's typical winter temperature from your desired garage temperature. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the heating factor 0.033 for garages?
A: This factor accounts for typical garage construction with less insulation than living spaces and accounts for heat loss through garage doors and walls.

Q2: How do I calculate garage volume?
A: Measure length, width, and height in feet, then multiply: Volume = Length × Width × Height (all in feet).

Q3: What ΔT should I use?
A: Use the difference between your desired garage temperature and the coldest outdoor temperature you expect. For example: 65°F desired - 20°F outdoor = 45°F ΔT.

Q4: Should I add extra capacity for my garage?
A: Add 10-20% extra BTU capacity if your garage has poor insulation, large windows, or frequent door openings.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for other spaces?
A: This specific calculation is optimized for garage spaces. Other room types may require different heating factors and calculations.