Definition: Heat energy that causes a temperature change in a substance without changing its phase (solid, liquid, or gas).
Why It Matters: Most refrigeration load is sensible heat (cooling product temperature). Specific heat capacity determines how much energy is required.
Example: Cooling 1,000 kg of beef from +4°C to -18°C requires removing approximately 90,000 kJ (25 kWh) of sensible heat (plus latent heat if product passes through freezing point).
Related Terms: Latent Heat, Specific Heat Capacity, Thermal Load