Cost per CFM:
The Cost Per CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) Calculator is an essential tool used by businesses, facilities, or industries that rely on ventilation, air conditioning, and heating systems. It calculates the cost of energy consumed by an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system based on the airflow it provides, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
This tool is particularly useful for understanding the operational efficiency of an air handling system, estimating energy expenses, and identifying opportunities to reduce energy consumption. By calculating the cost per CFM, users can assess whether their HVAC systems are running cost-effectively or if changes are necessary to improve energy efficiency.
Formula of Cost Per Cfm Calculator
The formula for calculating Cost per CFM is:
Cost per CFM = Total Energy Cost ÷ Total CFM
Where:
- Total Energy Cost is the total cost of energy consumed by the HVAC system. This can be broken down as:
- Energy Rate: The cost per unit of energy consumed, typically measured in dollars per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or any other relevant energy unit.
- Total Energy Consumption: The total amount of energy consumed by the HVAC system during a given period, typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or another relevant unit.
- Total CFM refers to the total airflow provided by the HVAC system, measured in cubic feet per minute. This is a measurement of how much air is being circulated by the system during the specified time period.
Breakdown of Variables
- Total Energy Cost
- Energy Rate: This is the amount charge by the utility provider for each unit of energy consume, typically list on an energy bill.
- Total Energy Consumption: The energy consume by the HVAC system can be monitor using a power meter or based on the system's specifications (e.g., a system running at 5 kW for 24 hours).
- Total CFM
This represents the total airflow capacity of the HVAC system, which can be calculate by the system’s manufacturer specifications or by measuring the airflow using an anemometer.
General Terms and Pre-Calculated Values Table
| Term | Pre-Calculated Value |
|---|---|
| Energy Rate (per kWh) | $0.10–$0.25 per kWh |
| Average HVAC System Power Consumption | 2–10 kW per hour |
| Total Airflow per System | 500–5,000 CFM depending on system size |
| Typical Energy Usage for Commercial Building HVAC | 100–500 kWh per day |
| Average Operational Time per Day | 12–24 hours |
This table provides estimates for some of the common terms related to calculating the cost per CFM, including typical energy consumption values for HVAC systems, common energy rates, and standard airflow values.
Example of Cost Per Cfm Calculator
Scenario: A company wants to calculate the cost per CFM for its large commercial HVAC system. The following details are provided:
- Energy Rate: $0.15 per kWh
- Total Energy Consumption: 500 kWh per day
- Total Airflow: 3,000 CFM per day
Step 1: Calculate the Total Energy Cost
Total Energy Cost = Energy Rate × Total Energy Consumption
Total Energy Cost = $0.15 × 500 = $75 per day
Step 2: Apply the Formula
Cost per CFM = Total Energy Cost ÷ Total CFM
Cost per CFM = $75 ÷ 3,000 = $0.025 per CFM
Conclusion:
In this case, the cost per CFM is $0.025, meaning the company spends 2.5 cents for each cubic foot of air circulated by the HVAC system.
Most Common FAQs
Calculating the cost per CFM is essential for understanding the efficiency of an HVAC system. It helps businesses assess how much energy is being use to move air and allows them to identify areas where they can improve energy efficiency, optimize performance, and reduce operational costs.
To reduce your cost per CFM, consider optimizing the HVAC system by improving insulation. Ensuring the system is properly maintain, upgrading to energy-efficient units, and fine-tuning airflow to reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
Yes, the cost per CFM can vary significantly depending on the type of HVAC system. Its size, and the operational environment. Larger systems with higher airflow demands tend to have higher energy consumption. While energy-efficient models will generally have lower costs per CFM.