Anyone shopping for a new HVAC has probably seen the term “BTU” thrown around. It’s equally likely that you don’t have a clue as to what the term means. Learning a little about BTUs can help you make a more informed decision.
Here’s the crash course on BTUs you never knew you needed.
What Are BTUs?
“BTU” is short for “British Thermal Units.” This unit of measurement refers to the amount of energy it takes to bring up the temperature of a single pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
BTUs have been a standard for a while, becoming commonplace in the late 1800s. They’re used to classify heating and cooling appliances like portable or whole-home air conditioners. Stoves, heat pumps, and all kinds of heaters — even solar-powered ones — also measure BTUs.
BTUs for Heating vs. Cooling
Although the term is applied to both heating and cooling systems, there’s a slight difference between the two. With heating equipment, BTUs measure how much heat the appliance can generate. By contrast, an air conditioner’s BTU rating refers to how efficiently it removes heat from the air.
It can be said for both appliances that the BTU is calculating how much energy the unit will have to generate to change the temperature of the air.
How Many BTUs Do You Need?
Each home has unique needs that the ideal HVAC system can address. The size, location, and even shape of your home are all factors you should consider.
But the most important information comes in the square footage of the space you’re climate-controlling. You can use your square footage to quickly calculate your BTU needs with the aid of online resources.
The BTU charts you see online are a good starting point, but it’s much better to talk with a trained HVAC expert.
The charts are purposely generalized and, therefore won’t account for specific details of your home. An HVAC expert from a company like Rowland Air will give you a clearer picture of your home’s needs and make knowledgeable suggestions. These professional consultations can save you a lot of time searching for the right fit.
Why the Right Size HVAC Is Crucial
When it comes to BTUs and square footage, it’s about finding the right size system for your space. That doesn’t mean how large the unit is physically, but whether the BTUs are sufficient to cool and heat your home.
Undersized units will struggle to keep your home comfortable. Oversized units can be equally problematic, causing the system to “short cycle,” which can be hard on your equipment and lead to a host of issues, including decreasing the lifespan of your unit.
Neither situation is desirable, so finding the right BTUs to keep your home comfortable is always a good idea.
Understanding BTUs is crucial for anyone hunting for the perfect HVAC unit. With this overview to guide you, you can discuss your options with an HVAC expert and make an informed choice.
The post Behind-the-Scenes with BTUs: Everything You Need to Know About Their Impact on Your HVAC Unit first appeared on Rowland Air HVAC Contractors.
