How much energy (BTUs) is released when 1 pound of steam condenses?

When steam condenses into water, it releases a significant amount of energy due to the latent heat of vaporization. This is a crucial concept in HVAC, as understanding the energy exchange during phase changes is vital for effective heating and cooling systems.

The value generally accepted for the amount of energy released when 1 pound of steam condenses is approximately 1,000 BTUs. This quantity reflects the latent heat of vaporization for water, which is the energy required to change water from liquid to gas without changing its temperature. When steam condenses back into liquid water, this energy is released into the surrounding environment, which is why it plays a key role in heating applications.

Recognizing this value is essential for HVAC professionals when designing systems that utilize steam for heating. Proper calculations based on this figure ensure efficiency and effectiveness in transferring heat, thereby optimizing system performance.