What Is BTU?

If you’ve researched ratings for furnaces, air conditioning units or water heaters in St. George, UT, you’ve probably come across the term BTU. If you’re not familiar with this acronym, you probably asked, “What is BTU?” Here’s what you need to know.

What is BTU?

BTU is a type of rating. It is used for rating heat-producing and heat-removing equipment. The acronym stands for British thermal unit.

A BTU is defined as the amount of heat needed to raise or lower the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit, at sea level. (A pound of water is roughly two cups.)

What is BTU/H?

Often, the BTU rating is written or referred to as BTU/H. This stands for British thermal units per hour. The rating indicates how many BTUs the appliance produces or removes if it runs for 60 minutes.

What is an average BTU rating?

Appliances vary greatly in size and ability. For gas furnaces, the BTU range is from about 40,000 BTU/H to around 120,000 BTU/H. Oil furnaces range from 60,000 to 160,000 BTU/H.

What BTU rating do I need for my furnace?

To effectively heat your home, you will need between 30 and 60 BTU per hour per square foot of space. Of course, this varies based on the climate. In an extremely cold climate, you may need a furnace with a rating of 120,000 BTU/H. In a much warmer climate, you may only need 60,000 BTU/H to heat the same 2,000 square foot home.

Do I need to consider BTU ratings for other appliances?

Yes. BTUs apply to systems that both remove and produce heat for the surroundings. This makes a BTU/H rating important for air conditioning systems as well as furnaces. This includes all types of heating and cooling systems, including central AC, window units, boilers, water heaters and more.

How do I know what BTU rating is best for my setting?

Many factors should be considered as you choose your systems and appliances. The size of the home, the climate, the layout of the space, your lifestyle and your budget are all important considerations.

To select the best solution for your needs, consult with professionals for expert input. With in-depth knowledge of HVAC systems, these technicians can evaluate your needs and recommend the best BTU/H rating to meet them. Look for a company that is established in the industry and has experience with the types of systems you are considering for your property. Check for certifications and insurance, and read reviews from other customers to ensure you will receive quality service.

Partner with the pros

Since 1998, Calaway Heating & Air Conditioning has been St. George, UT’s leader in air conditioning repair and installation. We offer installation and repair services for furnaces of all kinds, heat pumps, refrigeration equipment, air conditioning units, thermostats and more. If you have questions about what solutions are best for your setting, give our experts a call. We’ll apply our extensive knowledge and experience to make sure you get the best solution for your needs.

Categorised in: HVAC Contractor

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