How do you calculate the BTU demand for a residential furnace?

The correct approach to calculate the BTU demand for a residential furnace involves determining the square footage of the home and multiplying it by the appropriate BTU per square foot that is tailored to the climate of the location. This method considers the specific heating needs based on both the size of the home and local weather conditions, ensuring that the furnace has the capacity to adequately heat the space.

The reason this method is effective is that it gives a more precise estimate of heating requirements based on physical space and the variable heating demands related to climate. Different climates have different heating needs; for example, a home in a colder climate may require more BTUs per square foot than one in a warmer area.

Using the square footage provides a direct correlation to how much heat is required to maintain a comfortable living environment, making it a comprehensive and customizable approach. Other methods, such as simply measuring temperature differences or estimating based solely on the number of appliances, do not account for the nuances of space and environmental factors that impact heat retention and loss. Hence, calculating based on square footage adjusted for climate is the most accurate methodology for determining BTU demand in residential settings.