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**mbauer013** · 10-25-2012, 07:53 PM

Does anybody know where I can find an appropriate calculator to help me determine load capabilities of a heating element? I am trying to determine if it is possible to build a system that uses a RIMS tube to heat the strike and sparge water within a reasonable time frame.

I am thinking something my wife could start when she gets home from work and two or three hours later would have a specific volume up to temp. I know the math for btu's into water but I need to calculate watts into BTUs.

**ChuckO** · 10-26-2012, 02:27 PM

Try this calculator http://gnipsel.com/beer/software/calculators/electric-heat.xls

**itsme6582** · 10-26-2012, 05:59 PM

That's a great spreadsheet. Full of good info.

audger · 10-26-2012, 06:19 PM

a good rule of tumb for doing things in your head is 1000w = 3400BTUs

and for those that dont know the BTU calculation its:
(weight of water, in pounds) x (end temp - start temp, in degrees F) = BTUs required
or
(#gallons) x (8.3) x (temperature change, in degrees F) = BTUs required

DeafSmith · 10-26-2012, 11:53 PM

1 kW = 3412 BTU per hour
or
1 kW hour = 3412 BTU

watts are a measure of power, BTU is a measure of energy.