If you’re shopping for an HVAC system in your Jacksonville home, you may have stumbled across the acronym BTU a few times. BTU is a rating for heating and cooling and can help homeowners determine how powerful an HVAC system is, and it offers critical information for system sizing.

In this article, the HVAC experts at United Air Temp discuss the BTU meaning for HVAC, ways for better understanding BTUs, and how these measurements offer an HVAC sizing guide.

What Does BTU Stand For? 

BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is a measurement of the amount of heat energy that a system can move or produce. It is used for a wide range of system types for both heating and cooling. For example, the BTU in an air conditioning system is about 24,000 BTU for a 1,200 square foot home, while a furnace for a 2,500 square foot home is more than 100,000 BTU. 

How BTUs Affect Heating and Cooling Performance 

BTUs indicate system capacity and can help homeowners ensure that they have the proper size cooling or heating system. Keep in mind that bigger isn’t always better. An oversized system can exhibit problems like short cycling, poor humidity control, uneven temperatures, and higher bills. If, instead, your system is underpowered, it may run constantly, resulting in more energy usage and increased wear and tear.

How to Calculate the Right BTUs for Your Space 

To ensure comfort, efficiency, and system life, you’ll want to reference a BTU calculator for your HVAC. The general guideline is to expect 20 BTUs per square foot. However, this is just a rule of thumb. Many factors can impact how powerful a system you need, like insulation quality, windows, ceiling height, and more. If you’re unsure how to calculate the BTUs you’ll need, consult a professional for an accurate load calculation.

BTUs vs Other HVAC Measurements

BTUs are just one of many HVAC measurements you’ll see while shopping for a system. Others include:

• Tons: For those purchasing an AC or heat pump, you may see HVAC measured in tons. BTU vs tonnage is easy to calculate, as 1 ton of cooling is 12,000 BTUs.
• SEER: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures the cooling efficiency of an AC or ductless mini-split.
• HSPF: The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor measures the overall efficiency of a heat pump.
• AFUE: The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency provides a percentage to reflect the heating efficiency of gas, oil, and propane furnaces. 

Choosing the Right BTU System with United Air Temp 

Since 1931, United Air Temp has been Jacksonville’s top choice for HVAC services, including the accurate sizing and precise installation of properly-rated home comfort systems. With the skills and experience to install a full range of system types, we’re proud to offer in-home assessments that help ensure you get the right system in the right size. Plus, we offer industry-leading warranties on units from top brands with a satisfaction guarantee from our expert technicians.

Ready for a new HVAC system? Let United Air Temp help you find the right system and size by contacting our experts today.