Definition of "BTU"

British thermal unit-a unit of energy associated with the creation of heat. Prior to 1929, it was defined as the amount of heat required to raised the temperature of 1 pound of water 1 degree Fahrenheit. In 1929, it was redefined as being equivalent to 251.996 calories, 778.26 ft-lb, or in electrical units, approximately one-third watt-hours. In the United States, the BTU is a standard measure of the heat-producing capabilities of various heating appliances, furnaces, and fuels.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Real Estate Terms

Written agreement in which the lessee pays rent to the lessor for the use of real property for a stated time period. An example is the tenant's rental of an apartment or office space. ...

A step's edge. ...

List of business property. ...

Land zoned for industrial use including manufacturing, factory office and warehouse space, research and development. ...

Structure built into the water from the land providing a facility for boats to tie up. A dock will often provide utility access ...

Right of an individual to be offered something before it is offered to others. For example, a tenant whose apartment is going to be converted to a cooperative has the first right of ...

Situation in which a business debts exceed the fair market value of its assets. ...

The individual responsible for an escrow account. ...

A roof having two slopes on each side. The second slope is longer than the first part of the roof and extremely steep. ...

Popular Real Estate Questions