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

The term agricultural property means a type of land that has been designed or is permitted to engage in agricultural activities. Also referred to as agricultural land, agricultural ...

property suitable for residential living, such as a house, duplex, apartment, mobile home, or condominium. ...

An enticingly attractive initial rate below the market offered in an adjustable rate mortgage. For example, the teaser rate may be offered at 2% below market. A borrower who cannot qualify ...

Adding a period of time onto another. An examples a mortgagor who successfully restructures his loan by tacking another five years onto the term. ...

The rate, usually expressed annually, charged on money borrowed or lent. The interest rate may be variable or fixed. The higher the risk, the higher the interest rate. Mortgage interest ...

Performance of a complete inventory of real property within a jurisdiction. A cadastral program produces the cadastral map. ...

One of the parties is unable to satisfy the conditions of the purchase and sale contract. ...

Unsecured long-term debt. There is no collateral or lien on the property. A debenture can only be issued by a financially sound borrower with an excellent credit rating because no ...

Any of a number of types of covenants agreeing to do or not to do something that is attached to the title and is passed form one owner to the next. See also covenant running with the land. ...

Popular Real Estate Questions