Why BTUs Matter in an Air Conditioner and Furnace

As you’re searching for a new air conditioner or furnace, you might come across industry jargon that leaves you confused. History may have taught you that the biggest, most expensive, high-ranking product you can buy is almost always the best, but that’s not always the case.

With your HVAC equipment, it’s more important to ensure the air conditioner and furnace you purchase is what’s best for your home.

Purchasing the largest furnace, for example, can lead to equipment that produces too much airflow for the size of your space. It heats your home too quickly, which means the furnace doesn’t have a chance to completely cycle before turning off. And if it doesn’t run properly, it can shorten the lifespan of the furnace.

One of the comparisons you might see between equipment and brands is linked to BTU. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. These are units of measurement for how much energy it takes to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

This measurement will directly relate to the cooling or heating capacity of the equipment. This can be used as your standard of measure when comparing various units. It’s also important to determine how many BTUs are necessary to cool and heat your home efficiently. This depends on a variety of factors:

• Size of your home
• Ceiling height
• Which way your house faces
• Landscaping
• Insulation quality
• Number of windows

Of course, there are many other factors that go into determining the right equipment for your needs. This is where a reputable HVAC technician can help you analyze your home and select the right equipment for your needs.

If an HVAC company tries to quote you prices without doing a thorough evaluation, question their judgment. It’s important to get inside the home, evaluate it, and learn about your needs before deciding what equipment would work best in your unique situation.

Are you ready for a new air conditioner or furnace? Give us a call today.