Sensible Heat Ratio (SHR) Calculator
Split total cooling into sensible and latent.
Enter your values
Enter the sensible load in BTU/h.
Enter the latent load in BTU/h.
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.
- Sensible heat ratio
- 0.8
- Total load
- 30,000 BTU/h
- Total in tons
- 2.5
- Climate fit
- Dry climate profile
Quick answer
Sensible heat ratio is sensible capacity divided by total capacity; dry climates need a high SHR, humid ones a low SHR.
SHR = sensible / (sensible + latent)
At a glance
| What it does | Split total cooling into sensible and latent. |
|---|---|
| Category | HVAC & Airflow |
| Inputs needed | Sensible load, Latent load |
| Main output | Sensible heat ratio |
| Formula | SHR = sensible / (sensible + latent) |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Sensible Heat Ratio (SHR) Calculator
- 1Get sensible and latent loads from a Manual J or load estimate.
- 2Enter both to see the ratio.
- 3Pick equipment with a rated SHR close to your calculated value.
Inputs explained
- Sensible load(BTU/h)
- Enter the sensible load in BTU/h.
- Latent load(BTU/h)
- Enter the latent load in BTU/h.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Sensible load24000 BTU/h
- Latent load6000 BTU/h
Results
- Sensible heat ratio0.8
- Total load30,000 BTU/h
- Total in tons2.5
- Climate fitDry climate profile
Frequently asked questions
Typical residential SHR?
0.75-0.80 in mixed climates, down near 0.68 in humid coastal areas.
Why does mismatch hurt?
High-SHR equipment in a humid house leaves the space cold and clammy.
What do I need to enter into the Sensible Heat Ratio (SHR) Calculator?
Just 2 values: sensible load, latent load. 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 Sensible Heat Ratio (SHR) Calculator work out the answer?
Sensible heat ratio is sensible capacity divided by total capacity; dry climates need a high SHR, humid ones a low SHR. It applies the formula SHR = sensible / (sensible + latent) and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Sensible Heat Ratio (SHR) 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.