When you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system in Oregon City, OR, you’ll have a lot of decisions to make. You might consider a multi-zone or single-zone system, a ductless air conditioner or one that relies on traditional ductwork, or a high-efficiency cooling system. Another consideration is the amount of BTUs (British Thermal Units) the air conditioner has. Read on to learn about what BTUs are, how many your home may need and why choosing the right amount of BTUs is important.
What Air Conditioning BTUs Are
BTUs are a measure of heat transfer. When it comes to air conditioning systems, BTUs measure how much heat the unit can transfer out of your home over a specified period of time. Air conditioners are usually rated with BTUs as well as how much power they require to operate. The BTU rating tells you how much cooling the system can provide for your home.
How Many BTUs Does Your Home Need?
Your home in Oregon City needs about 20 BTUs per square foot. If your home is 2,000 square feet, you’ll need an air conditioning system with approximately 40,000 BTUs. However, there are a few other factors to keep in mind.
If your home has high ceilings or a great room, you’ll need more BTUs. Homes with a lot of large windows or old, single-pane windows may need more BTUs. Houses with dark roofs and a lot of direct sunlight also need about 10% more BTUs than homes with light-colored roofs or more shade.
Why BTUs Matter
If your air conditioner doesn’t have enough BTUs, it will constantly run. This increases your electricity bill. Too many BTUs will impact your comfort and drive up your utility costs.
Anderson Heating & Cooling is the trusted company for air conditioning installations in Oregon City. We’re also available for heating installations and heating and air conditioning maintenance and repairs. Our indoor air quality, ductwork, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, water heaters, and smart thermostats are designed with your comfort in mind. For more details on air conditioning BTUs, get in touch with us at Anderson Heating & Cooling any time.
