1. What is a Heat Loss Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the heat loss through a building element based on area, heat transfer coefficient, and temperature difference.

Purpose: It helps engineers, architects, and building professionals determine heat transfer for energy efficiency calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Heat loss (Watts)
• \( A \) — Area of the surface (square meters)
• \( U \) — Heat transfer coefficient (W/m²·K)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature difference across the surface (Kelvin)

Explanation: The heat loss is calculated by multiplying the surface area by its U-value and the temperature difference.

3. Importance of Heat Loss Calculation

Details: Proper heat loss estimation is crucial for designing energy-efficient buildings, sizing heating systems, and calculating energy costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the surface area in m², U-value in W/m²·K, and temperature difference in Kelvin. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical U-value for walls?
A: Modern insulated walls typically have U-values between 0.1-0.3 W/m²·K, while older walls may be 1.0-2.0 W/m²·K.

Q2: How do I determine the temperature difference?
A: Subtract the outdoor temperature from the indoor temperature (both in °C or K, as the difference is the same).

Q3: Can I use this for windows?
A: Yes, but use the specific U-value for the window (typically higher than walls, around 1.0-3.0 W/m²·K).

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides basic steady-state heat loss. For more accuracy, consider thermal bridges, air infiltration, and thermal mass.

Q5: What about heat gain calculations?
A: The same formula applies, just reverse the temperature difference for heat gain scenarios.