What is the sensible heat formula for electric heat?

The sensible heat formula for electric heat is derived from the principles of how electric heaters convert electrical energy into heat and the relationship between air flow, electrical specifications, and temperature change. The formula indicates how to calculate the airflow in CFM (cubic feet per minute) based on the power (in Watts) supplied to an electric heating element while factoring in the temperature differential.

First, the calculation begins with the electrical input: multiplying volts by amps provides the total power in watts. The factor of 3413 is used because it converts watts into BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour, which is a common unit of measurement for heat. The division by 1.08 plays a key role here; it is derived from the specific heat of air and is integral in converting the heat energy into an equivalent airflow rate as it relates to the temperature rise across a given distance.

The temperature differential is crucial, as it determines how much the temperature of the air changes as it passes over the heating element. By incorporating it into the formula, you can determine how much air is required to achieve a specific temperature increase, an essential aspect of HVAC design for ensuring adequate heating without overloading the system.

When taken together, the formula indeed shows how electric heat