Heat-Strip kW Finder
Electric backup / auxiliary heat strips are rated in kilowatts (kW). Read your kW from the heat-kit model number below, then convert it to BTU/h, amps, and a minimum circuit size.
kW → BTU/h, amps & circuit size
Amps = kW × 1000 ÷ volts. Minimum circuit ampacity adds the 125% continuous-load factor (CEC/NEC); the breaker shown is the next standard size up. Large strips (15 kW+) are often split across two circuits.
Common heat-strip sizes
| kW | BTU/h | Amps @240V | Typical breaker |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | 17,061 | 20.8 A | 30 A |
| 7.5 kW | 25,591 | 31.3 A | 40 A |
| 8 kW | 27,297 | 33.3 A | 45 A |
| 10 kW | 34,121 | 41.7 A | 60 A |
| 15 kW | 51,182 | 62.5 A | 80 A |
| 20 kW | 68,243 | 83.3 A | 110 A |
How to read kW from your model number
The kW rating is almost always the 1–2 digit number in the heat kit's part number — and it's printed on the kit's data tag. Common patterns by brand:
| Brand family | Example part no. | Where the kW is |
|---|---|---|
| Goodman / Amana | HKR-10 | The number after HKR ≈ kW (HKR-10 ≈ 10 kW). |
| Rheem / Ruud | RXBH-24A10J | First pair = air-handler size, the standalone 10 ≈ 10 kW. |
| Carrier / Bryant / ICP (Heil, Tempstar, KeepRite, Comfortmaker) | KFCEH1001C10 | The trailing 2 digits ≈ kW (…C10 ≈ 10 kW). |
| Lennox / Ducane | ECB25-15CB | The number before CB ≈ kW (…-15 ≈ 15 kW). |
| Trane / American Standard | BAYHTR1505 | Heater-size digits give kW (05 group ≈ 5 kW). |
| York / Coleman / Luxaire / Nordyne / Intertherm | …EH / heat-kit no. | Look for the 1–2 digit kW number in the kit part no. |
Can't find it in the model number? The kW (or total watts) is stamped on the heat-kit data plate. 5 kW = 5000 W.
⚠️ Breaker and wire sizing must be confirmed by a licensed electrician against the kit's data tag and your local code.
Get the exact element — not just the math
These figures come straight from the numbers you enter. A replacement still has to match your original element's data tag: voltage, wattage, coil dimensions, and terminals. Send us your make and model, or a photo of the old element's tag, and we'll confirm the exact part and ship it across Canada.
⚠️ Working on the circuit itself? Confirm wire gauge and breaker sizing with a licensed electrician and your local code.
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