BTUH, or British Thermal Units per Hour, measures the cooling capacity of an air conditioner. It indicates how much heat the unit can remove from a space each hour.

What is a BTUH?

BTUH, or British Thermal Units per Hour, measures the cooling capacity of an air conditioner, indicating how much heat can be removed from a space in one hour. A higher BTUH means more powerful cooling, suitable for larger areas.

What is a BTU?

A BTU measures the energy needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In HVAC, BTUs measure cooling capacity, with air conditioners rated in BTUH or tons (1 ton = 12,000 BTUH).

How is BTUH Measured?

BTUH is calculated by multiplying an air conditioner's tonnage by 12,000. Tonnage reflects the cooling power, where one ton equals the energy to melt a pound of ice over 24 hours. For instance, a common residential unit is 2.5 tons. When combined with the right ductwork, a system’s BTUH capacity can be optimized for maximum efficiency.

What is a Good BTUH Rating?

To select the right BTUH for your home or business, consider the space's size. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends about 20 BTUs per square foot. Factors like insulation and ceiling height also influence the appropriate BTUH. For accurate sizing, consult an HVAC expert at Central Air of Virginia.

Why BTUH Matters

BTUH ratings impact how efficiently and effectively an air conditioner cools a space. Properly sized units ensure better indoor comfort, reduced energy costs, and longer system life.