1. What is BTU?

BTU (British Thermal Unit) is a unit of heat defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In HVAC, it's used to measure heating and cooling capacity.

2. How Does the Conversion Work?

The conversion formula is simple:

This conversion comes from the amount of heat needed to melt one ton (2000 lbs) of ice in 24 hours.

3. Importance of Proper Sizing

Details: Properly sizing a heat pump is crucial for efficiency and performance. An undersized unit won't adequately heat/cool your space, while an oversized unit will short-cycle, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the heat pump size in tons (common residential sizes range from 1.5 to 5 tons). The calculator will instantly show the BTU equivalent.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 1 ton equal to 12,000 BTU?
A: This dates back to when cooling was measured by ice melting. One ton of ice melting over 24 hours absorbs 12,000 BTU per hour.

Q2: What size heat pump do I need for my home?
A: While this calculator converts units, actual sizing requires a Manual J calculation considering square footage, insulation, climate, and other factors.

Q3: Are all 5-ton heat pumps exactly 60,000 BTU?
A: Most are rated at 60,000 BTU, but high-efficiency models may have slightly different capacities. Always check manufacturer specifications.

Q4: What's the difference between BTU and BTU/hour?
A: In HVAC, BTU ratings are actually BTU/hour, though the "/hour" is often omitted in casual usage.

Q5: How does this relate to SEER ratings?
A: SEER measures efficiency (BTU of cooling per watt-hour of electricity), while BTU measures capacity. Both are important when selecting a unit.