How do I Find the BTU's of a Server?

In relation to my other article on Server Power Usage, I was asked about calculating the cooling needs of a server. One key value to know in this is that 1 Watt will produce 3.412 BTU per hour. This calculation takes the input volate (assumed at 120 volts for the US), and then the amperage load for a given server (router, etc.).

Cooling Needs

BTUs or British Thermal Units are heat measurements. Generally measured in per-hour increments. In common usage 12,000 BTU/h is considered a Ton. This is important because we cool and heat over time so we need to know how much cooling to throw in to the room per hour.

Now, the above calculation is simple in that it doesn't take into account fluctuating computing needs. You may say that you are only using 25% of your server's capacity and as such, reduce the BTU's generated and thus the cooling needed. Also, keep in mind other sources of heat, such as lighting, monitors, and other equipment.