1. What is AC Heat Load?

AC Heat Load refers to the total amount of heat that needs to be removed from a space by an air conditioning system. It includes heat from conduction through surfaces, infiltration of outside air, and internal heat gains from occupants, equipment, and lighting.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AC Heat Load formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Total heat load (BTU/h)
• \( Conduction \) — Heat transfer through building surfaces (BTU/h)
• \( Infiltration \) — Heat from air leakage (BTU/h)
• \( Gains \) — Internal heat gains from people and equipment (BTU/h)

Explanation: The equation sums up all heat sources that contribute to the cooling load of a space.

3. Importance of AC Heat Load Calculation

Details: Accurate heat load calculation is essential for proper HVAC system sizing, energy efficiency, and maintaining comfortable indoor conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all heat load components in BTU/h. Values must be non-negative. The calculator will sum all inputs to provide the total AC heat load.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is conduction in heat load calculation?
A: Conduction refers to heat transfer through walls, windows, roofs, and other building surfaces due to temperature differences.

Q2: What contributes to infiltration heat load?
A: Infiltration includes heat from outside air entering through cracks, openings, and ventilation systems.

Q3: What are typical internal heat gains?
A: Internal gains include heat from people (250-400 BTU/h per person), lighting, computers, appliances, and other equipment.

Q4: Why is accurate heat load calculation important?
A: Proper calculation ensures the AC system is correctly sized - neither too small (inadequate cooling) nor too large (short cycling, poor humidity control).

Q5: How often should heat load calculations be performed?
A: Calculations should be done for new installations, major renovations, or when changing space usage patterns.