Heating Glossary Terms
2 terms related to heating, explained in plain English.
What Does BTU Mean for Heaters?
BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures a heater's heat output — roughly, how much energy it can deliver per hour. A higher BTU rating generally suits a larger room or outdoor area, while an undersized BTU rating for the space will struggle to warm it effectively, so checking BTU against room size is a more useful comparison than wattage alone.
What Is a TRV (Thermostatic Radiator Valve)?
A TRV is a valve fitted to a radiator that automatically regulates flow based on the room's temperature, letting each radiator in a home be set to a different comfort level independently of the main boiler thermostat. Turning a TRV down in unused rooms is a common way UK households reduce heating costs without adjusting the whole system.