What Is BTU and Why Should I Care?
Earl’s Air Conditioning Explains a Common HVAC Term
BTU is the acronym for British Thermal Unit(s) which is a measuring unit that is part of the common HVAC systems in the United States. Much like the calorie, this is a measuring agent that applies to heat, wherein the BTU measures the amount of energy that your HVAC appliance can process to heat or cool your space.
BTUs are listed as a rating number for different heating and cooling systems so that consumers (and contractors) can determine what is the best heating or cooling unit for any given space. At Earl’s Air Conditioning, we know that part of our job is helping our customers understand common HVAC terms and how they help find the right size heating or cooling unit for a home or office. We know the unique climate conditions in Coachella Valley and we are here to help you with HVAC installation and repair.
Contact the team of Coachella Valley air conditioning installation and repair specialists at Earl’s Air Conditioning to discuss your HVAC needs. Schedule your appointment today!
What Are BTU Ratings For?
BTU ratings can tell you how powerful your appliance is and are listed as BTU or BTU/Hr. Higher BTU ratings indicate that your system can heat (or cool) a small space to a higher temperature faster or heat a larger space. BTU ratings measure energy in relation to heat. This number in reference to air conditioning is indicating its power to remove heat from a room, rather than cool it, using the compressor system in the unit.
Once you have the BTU rating for any given system, you can determine if that system is the right size to fit your needs. These ratings are listed on heat pumps, space heaters, A/C systems, and portable cooling units.
It is important to choose an adequate system to heat and cool your space. Insufficient power would cause your system to constantly be running to maintain a temperature. Too much power will cause a system to cool a room too quickly and the system will need to cycle again in less time to maintain that cooler temperature. Inconsistency in temperatures may be the result of too little or too much power.
Factors in Choosing Your HVAC System
To aid in choosing a system for your home or space, measure each room’s width and length to find the square footage of the space. Consult BTU charts to determine the range of size for systems that can heat or cool the space without strain. Once you have an idea of the size and BTU range, you will want to consider other factors before making a final decision.
Discuss your needs with a professional and include the following factors:
- Ceiling height
- Location of space (1st floor, 2nd floor, external walls versus internal walls)
- Insulation
- Windows (Are they north, south, east, or west-facing?)
- Space shape
There are many factors that will help narrow down the options for ideal systems to use in your space. An HVAC professional can work with you to make sure you make the right choice.
Contact Earl’s Air Conditioning to Find the Right HVAC System for You.
When you need help finding the perfect HVAC system to fit your space, call on the professionals at Earl’s Air Conditioning. Our team has decades of experience with different options for HVAC installation and repair in the Coachella Valley and we are happy to help you choose. Whether you need a smaller unit for just one room, need a repair to an existing HVAC system, or are looking to install a completely new air conditioning system in your home, we’ve got the specialists for you.
Call the office at Earl’s Air Conditioning today. Set an appointment with our team and leave the details to us.