What Are BTUs on a Range and How Many Do You Need?
BTUs measure the heat output of gas stoves. Learn the ideal BTU range for different cooking tasks, from simmering to searing, and decide if a high-output commercial stove is right for your kitchen.
BTUs measure the heat output of gas stoves. Learn the ideal BTU range for different cooking tasks, from simmering to searing, and decide if a high-output commercial stove is right for your kitchen.
Written by Andrew Shevchenko
Contributing Writer
Updated August 05, 2024
hen you’re in the market for a new stove, it’s important to understand what BTUs (British Thermal Units) mean. BTUs are a measure of heat output, determining how powerful each burner is on your gas range. Here’s everything you need to know, rewritten specifically for Major at Appliance Repair customers:
BTUs measure how much heat your stove burners can generate. One BTU raises the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. So, when you’re wondering, “What are BTUs on a range?” you’re asking about the power and heat efficiency each burner can provide.
Most daily cooking doesn’t require an extremely high BTU output. Simmering, for instance, needs low, consistent heat (around 1,000-5,000 BTUs), while sautéing requires medium heat (around 9,000 BTUs). For more intense cooking tasks like boiling or searing, a high heat burner offering 12,000-18,000 BTUs is recommended.
Commercial-grade stoves can have burners producing up to 25,000 BTUs, and they’re often used in restaurants or high-demand kitchens. While these stoves are now available for home use, consider whether you truly need that much power. If you’re passionate about cooking or have a large family, this might be the right choice, but for most households, a typical range of BTUs should suffice.
Unlike gas stoves, electric ranges measure power in watts, not BTUs. However, if you want to compare, 1 watt equals roughly 3.41 BTUs per hour.
Now that you understand BTUs and how they relate to your stove, make an informed decision for your next appliance purchase. And if you ever need help with repairs or maintenance, trust Major at Appliance Repair to assist you with expert service.
What are BTUs on a gas stove?
BTUs, or British Thermal Units, measure the heat output of a burner. It indicates how quickly the stove can heat up food by showing how much energy it can produce.
How many BTUs do I need for everyday cooking?
For general cooking, a burner with around 9,000 BTUs works well. For tasks like simmering, you’ll need a lower BTU burner (1,000-5,000), while high heat cooking like searing may require 12,000-18,000 BTUs.
Do electric stoves have BTUs?
Electric stoves don’t use BTUs but measure power in watts. For comparison, 1 watt is equivalent to about 3.41 BTUs per hour.
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