Convert Kilocalorie (kcal) (kcal) to BTU (IT) (btu)
Category: Energy
1 kcal = 3.965667 btu
High-precision rounding: 6 decimals
How to convert kilocalorie (kcal) to btu (it)
We convert by pivoting through the SI base unit for Energy and applying exact factors where applicable.
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Quick conversion table
Handy values for Kilocalorie (kcal) → BTU (IT). Click a value to open that exact result.
Conversion formula
Linear unit conversions use standardized factors; many are exact by definition (e.g., 1 in = 25.4 mm, 1 ft = 0.3048 m).
Common mistakes
- Confusing calorie (cal) with kilocalorie (kcal) on nutrition labels.
- Treating BTU definitions interchangeably without noting standard (IT vs other).
Unit facts
- Kilocalorie (kcal): A kilocalorie (kcal) equals 4,184 J; standard on food labels.
- BTU (IT): British thermal unit (BTU IT) ≈ 1,055.06 J; common in HVAC ratings.
About Energy
Energy is the capacity to do work. Joules form the SI base; Wh/kWh align with metering and batteries; calories and BTU survive in nutrition and HVAC. Conversions bridge mechanical, thermal, and electrical perspectives.
About Kilocalorie (kcal)
Kilocalorie (kcal)
Equals 1,000 cal; labeled as ‘Calorie’ on food packaging. Converts to joules for scientific comparisons.
History: Nutrition science standardized kcal for daily intake guidelines and labels.
About BTU (IT)
British thermal unit (BTU)
≈1,055.06 J (IT). Common in HVAC sizing and fuel energy content (per lb or per ft³).
History: Industrial steam era popularized BTU; persists for practical North American engineering.
Related conversions from kcal
- kcal → cal Calorie (cal)
- kcal → j Joule (J)
- kcal → kwh Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
- kcal → wh Watt-hour (Wh)