When shopping for home appliances, chances are, you’ve probably seen the word “BTU.” Known as “British Thermal Unit,” the acronym is a measurement for heat energy, including in air conditioners, stoves, and fireplaces. Here, New England Hearth and Home has compiled a guide on BTU and why you should care about it the next time you’re at an appliance store. Read more below!
Where did BTU come from?
In the 18th century, scientists needed a more precise way of measuring heat energy, and began tinkering with heat metrics. As to how they came up with BTU? Nobody knows who invented it, how, or when. By the 19th century, it began to appear in dictionaries, then scientific publications, before eventually making its way to British and international labs. Today, BTU is the standard unit for classification in many English and non-English speaking countries. (Funny enough, the British don’t use BTU as a measurement anymore.)
How is BTU Used?
As explained by Green Building Advisor, “One BTU is the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.” Imagine you purchased a stove that has “20,000” BTU. This would mean that it has 20,000 BTU per hour, which is capable of hitting pretty high heat temperatures. The higher the BTU is, the bigger the flame. Same with fireplaces: the BTU determines the unit’s heating capability. A fireplace with higher BTU will be able to effectively warm a larger living space than one with a lower BTU.
Why Does BTU Matter for Your Home?
So You Don’t Waste Money
If you buy a fireplace with high BTU for a small living area, not only will your heating bill increase, but you’ll be wasting money in the long run, too. This also applies to buying a fireplace with low BTU for a moderately sized living area: it’s not going to properly heat up the space, and you’ll be losing money.
How Much BTU Does Your Home Need?
This will depend on the size of your home, its insulation, ceiling height, and where you’re thinking of putting your BTU-measured appliances. For more help, you can look up a room BTU calculator.
Ready to Get a New Fireplace with BTU? Contact New England Hearth and Home, Massachusetts #1 Choice for Gas, Electric, and Wood-Burning Fireplaces! Our team provides professional fireplace installations, annual cleanings & inspections, fireplace maintenance and repairs, fireplace and stove removals, and more! To receive a free consultation on one of our services today, contact New England Hearth and Home on our website or call us at (781)-562-0771. We can’t wait to hear from you!
