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BTU Conversion Formula:
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BTU (British Thermal Unit) is a unit of measurement for energy, specifically the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In home heating, it's used to measure the energy content of natural gas.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion factor represents the approximate energy content of one hundred cubic feet of natural gas measured at standard temperature and pressure.
Details: Calculating BTU from gas consumption helps homeowners understand their energy usage, compare heating efficiency, estimate heating costs, and make informed decisions about energy conservation and equipment sizing.
Tips: Enter your gas consumption in CCF (hundred cubic feet) as shown on your gas bill. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will instantly convert this to BTU equivalent.
Q1: What exactly is a CCF?
A: CCF stands for "hundred cubic feet" and is a standard unit for measuring natural gas consumption. One CCF equals 100 cubic feet of natural gas.
Q2: Why is the conversion factor 103,000?
A: This is the average energy content of natural gas, though it can vary slightly (100,000-107,000 BTU/CCF) depending on the gas composition and local standards.
Q3: How can I find my CCF usage?
A: Your natural gas bill will show your consumption in CCF or therms (1 therm = 100,000 BTU). If billed in therms, multiply by 0.97 to estimate CCF.
Q4: What's the difference between BTU and kW?
A: BTU measures thermal energy, while kilowatt (kW) measures electrical power. 1 kW = 3,412 BTU/hour. Different energy forms require different measurement units.
Q5: How many BTUs do I need to heat my home?
A: This varies by climate, home size, insulation, and other factors. Generally, you need 20-40 BTU per square foot, but a professional energy audit provides the most accurate assessment.