Definition: A unit of energy representing the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In refrigeration, typically expressed as BTU/hour (BTU/h) for cooling capacity.
Why It Matters: Equipment capacity is often specified in BTU/h. Understanding conversion to metric units (watts, kilowatts) is essential for proper equipment selection.
Conversion:
- 1 BTU/h = 0.293 watts
- 1 kW = 3,412 BTU/h
- 1 ton of refrigeration = 12,000 BTU/h = 3.517 kW
Related Terms: Cooling Capacity, Kilowatt (kW), Ton of Refrigeration, Thermal Load