How to Size Room Heaters
Room heaters, also known as space heaters and electric heaters, are an ideal way to heat a room during the cold winter months. To purchase a room heater, you'll need to know the size of the room where the heater will be used. Using a simple calculation, you can determine how many watts are needed to heat your room and maximize heat. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Consider how much insulation is available inside the room. Contact the builder if you are not certain. Insulation is generally measured as low, medium and heavy. The number of windows will also be important. A room with large or multiple windows in relation to its size will require a slightly larger unit.
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Measure the length of the room being heated.
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Measure the width of the room being heated.
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Decide how much energy is required. For a heater sized at 10 watts per square foot, multiply the length and width of the room by 10 (the watts per square foot). For example, 12 feet by 14 feet equals 168 square feet. Multiply the square feet (168) by the watts (10) for the total number of watts required to heat the room. In this case, 1680 watts is required.
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Translate watts to British Thermal Units or BTUs. One watt equals 3.41 BTUs. Following the above example, you would need a room heater with a minimum of 5728 BTUs (1680 by 3.41).
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Tips & Warnings
Heat loss occurs when heat escapes through the walls and windows in a room.
Locate the number of watts for the room heater on the product box or owner's manual.
Never place a room heater near curtains or drapes.
