Commercial Water Heater Size Calculator

Water Heater Sizing Formula:

\[ WS = \frac{P \times GPH \times \Delta T \times 8.33}{Eff} \]

Number of People (P):

people

Gallons Per Hour (GPH):

gallons/hour

Temperature Rise (ΔT):

°F

Efficiency (Eff):

(0-1)

Water Heater Size:

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1. What is the Commercial Water Heater Size Calculation?

The Commercial Water Heater Size calculation determines the appropriate BTU/hr capacity needed for a commercial water heating system based on the number of people served, gallons per hour usage, temperature rise required, and system efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the water heater sizing formula:

\[ WS = \frac{P \times GPH \times \Delta T \times 8.33}{Eff} \]

Where:

\( P \) — Number of people served
\( GPH \) — Gallons per hour per person
\( \Delta T \) — Temperature rise required (°F)
\( 8.33 \) — Weight of one gallon of water (lbs)
\( Eff \) — System efficiency (0-1)
\( WS \) — Water heater size (BTU/hr)

Explanation: The formula calculates the energy required to heat water based on usage patterns and system characteristics.

3. Importance of Proper Water Heater Sizing

Details: Proper water heater sizing is crucial for ensuring adequate hot water supply, energy efficiency, and preventing equipment strain or premature failure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of people served, gallons per hour usage per person, required temperature rise, and system efficiency. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical GPH value per person?
A: Typical values range from 2-5 GPH per person depending on the type of facility and usage patterns.

Q2: What temperature rise is typically needed?
A: Temperature rise depends on incoming water temperature and desired output temperature, typically ranging from 40-100°F.

Q3: What is a typical efficiency rating?
A: Commercial water heaters typically have efficiency ratings between 0.75-0.95 (75-95%).

Q4: Should I add a safety factor to the calculation?
A: It's common practice to add a 10-20% safety factor to account for peak demand and future expansion.

Q5: Does this calculation work for all water heater types?
A: This formula provides a general estimate that works for most water heater types, but specific manufacturers may have additional sizing considerations.