HVAC & Airflow

CFM to BTU Calculator

Heat carried by an airstream.

Enter your values

Enter the airflow in CFM.

Enter the temperature difference in °F.

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.

Results
Sensible heat
25,920 BTU/h
In tons
2.16
In kW
7.6
Per CFM
21.6 BTU/h

Working

  1. 11.08 x 1,200 x 20 = 25,920 BTU/h

Quick answer

Sensible heat in BTU/h equals 1.08 multiplied by CFM and the temperature difference in °F.

BTU/h = 1.08 x CFM x ΔT

At a glance

What it doesHeat carried by an airstream.
CategoryHVAC & Airflow
Inputs neededAirflow, Temperature difference
Main outputSensible heat
FormulaBTU/h = 1.08 x CFM x ΔT
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the CFM to BTU Calculator

  1. 1Enter the airflow in CFM.
  2. 2Enter the supply-to-return temperature difference.
  3. 3Convert to tons or kW to compare with equipment ratings.

Inputs explained

Airflow(CFM)
Enter the airflow in CFM.
Temperature difference(°F)
Enter the temperature difference in °F.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Airflow1200 CFM
  • Temperature difference20 °F

Results

  • Sensible heat25,920 BTU/h
  • In tons2.16
  • In kW7.6
  • Per CFM21.6 BTU/h
  1. 1.08 x 1,200 x 20 = 25,920 BTU/h

Frequently asked questions

Why is my measured capacity lower?

Duct losses, leaks and low airflow all cut delivered capacity below the nameplate figure.

Does humidity affect this?

This is the sensible portion only; moisture removal adds latent capacity on top.

What do I need to enter into the CFM to BTU Calculator?

Just 2 values: airflow, temperature difference. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.

How does the CFM to BTU Calculator work out the answer?

Sensible heat in BTU/h equals 1.08 multiplied by CFM and the temperature difference in °F. It applies the formula BTU/h = 1.08 x CFM x ΔT and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.

Is the CFM to BTU Calculator free, and do I need an account?

It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.