BTU (IT) to Foot-Pounds (ft·lbf) Converter
Enter a value to instantly convert between energy units.
1 BTU (IT) = 778.1693 Foot-Pound Force
Key Formulas
Kilocalorie → Kilojoule
kJ = kcal × 4.184Kilojoule → Kilocalorie
kcal = kJ × 0.239006Kilowatt-Hour → Joule
J = kWh × 3600000Joule → Kilowatt-Hour
kWh = J × 2.77778e-7Formula
ft·lbf = BTU × 778.169The foot-pound and BTU are both imperial mechanical energy units, related through the mechanical equivalent of heat. Since 1 BTU = 778.17 ft·lbf exactly (from 1 lb × 1 ft × 1 °F raise per pound per degree), this conversion is precise. Mechanical engineers compare pump work, elevator energy, or motor output using these units.
Source: NIST SP 811, Table B.8
Frequently Asked Questions
Real-World Examples
A mechanical engineer checking: 1 BTU = 778 ft·lbf for a textbook example.
1 BTU = 778.17 ft·lbf
An elevator designer calculating 10 BTU motor heat dissipation in ft·lbf work equivalent.
10 BTU = 7781.7 ft·lbf
A pump engineer converting 100 BTU hydraulic work to foot-pounds for system documentation.
100 BTU = 77817 ft·lbf
A HVAC contractor estimating 1000 BTU fan energy in ft·lbf for a mechanical room layout.
1000 BTU = 778169 ft·lbf