Convert kilocalories to British thermal units
Converting kilocalories to British thermal units is a common energy task, whether you are checking a recipe, a spec sheet, a travel distance or a homework problem. Since 1 kcal equals 3.96567 BTU, the math is a single multiplication — and this page does it for you instantly, with the formula, a table of common values and answers to the questions people ask most.
Exact factor
How to convert kilocalories to British thermal units
To convert kilocalories to British thermal units, multiply the number of kilocalories by 3.96567. For example, 10 kcal × 3.96567 = 39.6567 BTU.
BTU = kcal × 3.96567
- Write down the value in kilocalories you want to convert.
- Multiply it by 3.96567 (the exact kcal→BTU factor).
- The result is your value in British thermal units. Check it below with the converter or the table.
Conversion table
Common values of kilocalories and their equivalents in British thermal units:
| kcal | BTU |
|---|---|
| 1 | 3.96567 |
| 2 | 7.93133 |
| 3 | 11.897 |
| 4 | 15.8627 |
| 5 | 19.8283 |
| 10 | 39.6567 |
| 20 | 79.3133 |
| 25 | 99.1417 |
| 50 | 198.283 |
| 100 | 396.567 |
| 250 | 991.417 |
| 500 | 1,982.83 |
About these units
Kilocalorie (kcal). A kilocalorie equals 1,000 small calories and is the 'Calorie' seen on food labels. An adult needs roughly 2,000–2,500 kcal per day, depending on activity.
British Thermal Unit (BTU). A British thermal unit is the energy to raise one pound of water by 1 °F, about 1,055 joules. Air conditioners, heaters and grills in the US are rated in BTU.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert kilocalories to British thermal units?
To convert kilocalories to British thermal units, multiply the number of kilocalories by 3.96567. For example, 10 kcal × 3.96567 = 39.6567 BTU. Or skip the math: type the value into the converter at the top of this page and the result updates instantly.
How many British thermal units are in 1 kilocalorie?
1 kcal = 3.96567 BTU. That is the fixed relationship used by this converter and by international standards.
How many kilocalories are in 1 british thermal unit?
1 BTU = 0.252164 kcal. If you are converting in the opposite direction, use our British Thermal Unit to Kilocalorie converter for the dedicated table and FAQ.
Is the kilocalories to British thermal units conversion exact?
Yes. Both units are defined by international agreement, so the factor of 3.96567 is exact. Displayed results are rounded to 6 significant digits only for readability.
What is kilocalorie used for?
A kilocalorie equals 1,000 small calories and is the 'Calorie' seen on food labels. An adult needs roughly 2,000–2,500 kcal per day, depending on activity.