Theatre HVAC Load Calculator
Cooling airflow for a theatre or auditorium by occupancy.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Total supply airflow
- 5,100 CFM
- Implied cooling tons
- 12.8
- Outdoor air at 5 CFM/seat
- 1,500 CFM
Quick answer
Theatres and auditoriums are typically sized around 15-20 CFM per seat, driven mostly by occupant sensible and latent heat.
CFM = seats x CFM per seat
How to use the Theatre HVAC Load Calculator
- 1Count the fixed seat capacity.
- 2Apply 15-20 CFM per seat as a planning figure for full houses.
- 3Layer in outdoor air ventilation rates separately for code compliance.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Seat count300
- CFM per seat17 CFM
Results
- Total supply airflow5,100 CFM
- Implied cooling tons12.8
- Outdoor air at 5 CFM/seat1,500 CFM
Frequently asked questions
Does showtime matter?
Demand control ventilation can reduce airflow between showings when the house is empty.
Why so much airflow per seat?
A packed, seated audience generates a surprisingly large, concentrated heat and CO2 load.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.