If you’re in the market for a new AC or Furnace, then you’ve probably heard the acronym BTU. To clarify, it stands for British Thermal Unit, and is used to measure thermal energy. More specifically, it is the amount of energy needed to raise 1 lb of water 1°F. When it comes to AC, BTU ratings measure how much heat it can remove from a room. In other words, a higher number means more cooling power for a larger room. BTU’s are used to measure a number of things like Air conditioners, heaters, solar hot water heaters, and cooking devices, for example.
First rule of thumb: Bigger isn’t always better
Choosing the right size AC is key, for example when you use an AC that is too large for the area it is cooling, the compressor will need to turn on and off much more than it is designed to. Though the room will cool down very quickly, it will also turn the compressor off. As a result, once the temperature in that area rises above the set temperature your unit will turn back on. This frequent on-off cycle that can result in parts failing sooner than they should. However having an AC unit that is the proper size for the space you want to cool will result in higher efficiency and less break downs.
So what now?
Call High Performance Heating and Air for a free estimate on a new AC unit today. From now through the end of the month we’re running a spring financing special for payments as low as $97 a month for 37 months. We’ll send out a certified HVAC technician to provide you with a free estimate and answer any questions you may have.
585-3harold
General room size to BTU ratios
| Room Size (Sq Ft) | Recommended BTUs |
|---|---|
| 0-150 | 5,000 |
| 150-200 | 6,000 |
| 250-300 | 8,000 |
| 300-350 | 10,000 |
| 350-400 | 12,000 |
| 400-450 | 14,000 |
| 450-500 | 15,000 |
| 500-600 | 18,000 |
| 600-700 | 20,000 |
| 700-800 | 22,000 |
| 800-900 | 25,000 |
