Convert between Btu (IT) and other Energy units.
BTU (IT) as a Unit of Energy
The British thermal unit, or BTU, is a traditional unit of energy that measures the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The BTU (IT), or international BTU, is slightly different from the conventional BTU, as it is standardized for scientific purposes. Specifically, one BTU (IT) is equivalent to approximately 1,055 joules.
BTUs are commonly used in heating and cooling systems, such as air conditioners and furnaces, to indicate their energy output. Understanding BTUs is essential for evaluating the efficiency and capacity of HVAC systems. Because of its roots in the imperial measurement system, the BTU is predominantly used in the United States, though other countries may prefer the metric system's joules or kilowatt-hours for energy measurements.