Determine the total peak design demand for Electrical (kW/Amps), Gas (BTU/hr/CFH), and Water (GPM/GPD) utilities by aggregating all kitchen equipment loads and applying industry-standard diversity factors.
How It Works
Electrical:
- Sum (Power kW × Quantity × Diversity %)
- Convert to Amps: Amps = (kW × 1000) / (Voltage × √3) for 3-phase
- Design power reflects actual operating load, not nameplate total
Gas:
- Sum (BTU/hr × Quantity × Diversity %)
- Convert to CFH: CFH = BTU/hr / 1000 (approximate)
- Peak flow for gas meter and regulator sizing
Water:
- Peak GPM = Sum (GPM × Quantity × Diversity %)
- Daily Consumption (GPD) = Sum (GPM × Hours/Day × Quantity × Diversity % × 60)
Electrical:
- Sum (Power kW × Quantity × Diversity %)
- Convert to Amps: Amps = (kW × 1000) / (Voltage × √3) for 3-phase
- Design power reflects actual operating load, not nameplate total
Gas:
- Sum (BTU/hr × Quantity × Diversity %)
- Convert to CFH: CFH = BTU/hr / 1000 (approximate)
- Peak flow for gas meter and regulator sizing
Water:
- Peak GPM = Sum (GPM × Quantity × Diversity %)
- Daily Consumption (GPD) = Sum (GPM × Hours/Day × Quantity × Diversity % × 60)
FAQ
Q: What is a diversity factor in utility calculations?
A: Diversity factor reflects the percentage of equipment likely operating at peak times. 70-80% is typical for commercial kitchens.
Q: How do I convert BTU/hr to CFH for gas?
A: Approximately 1 CFH = 1,000 BTU/hr for natural gas. The calculator does this automatically.
Q: What voltage should I use for electrical calculations?
A: 208V for 3-phase and 120V for single-phase are standard in US commercial kitchens.
References
- ASHRAE Handbook — HVAC Applications
- NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC)
- International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- Local utility requirements and rate schedules