Anyone with an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system in their home knows that this appliance is critical in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Like with any technical subject, getting to grips with HVAC can seem complicated with its myriad of terms and technologies. In this article, we will explore the A-Z of HVAC terms and technologies to shed some light on this vital system in our homes and workplaces.
A – Air Filters
Air filters in HVAC systems trap and hold the different types of contaminants and debris circulating in your air. There are different types of filters available, rated using the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) number. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at trapping airborne particles.
B – BTU
BTU or British Thermal Unit, is the amount of heat required to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In HVAC, it’s used to quantify the heat an air conditioning unit can remove from a room.
C – Compressor
The compressor is the primary component of your HVAC system, its role is to pump refrigerant throughout the system.
D – Ductwork
Ductwork refers to the system of ducts in your structure that distribute conditioned air throughout the rooms.
E – Evaporator Coil
This component of your HVAC system, located inside or near the air handler, absorbs heat from the air in your house.
F – Freon
Freon is a brand name for a type of refrigerant. It’s crucial for cooling in most older air conditioning systems.
G – Grille
This is the decorative cover for the air return vents.
H – Heat Pump
A heat pump is a system used for both heating and cooling. It works by transferring heat from a cool space to a warm space, making the cool space cooler and the warm space warmer.
I – Insulation
Insulation slows the rate of heat transfer, helping your HVAC system maintain a comfortable temperature more easily.
J – Joule
A joule is a unit of energy, equivalent to the heat transferred when an ampere passes through resistance of one ohm for one second.
K – Kilowatt (kW)
A measure of electrical energy equivalent to one thousand watts. Your energy use is usually measured in kilowatt-hours.
L – Load Calculation
This is the process of determining the right size HVAC system for your home, based on factors like size, amount of insulation, windows, and more.
M – Maintenance
Regular maintenance for your HVAC system can improve its efficiency and lifespan.
N – Noise Level
This is the sound output of your HVAC system, measured in decibels.
O – Outdoor Unit
This refers to the external component of your HVAC system, typically housing the compressor, condenser coil and fan.
P – Programmable Thermostat
This device allows you to automate the temperature settings of your HVAC system based on set schedules.
Q – Quality Assurance
This refers to the processes that ensure the HVAC system is designed and installed correctly, and is operating properly.
R – Refrigerant
A refrigerant is a fluid that absorbs heat from the environment and can provide refrigeration or air conditioning when combined with other components like compressors and evaporators.
S – SEER Rating
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures the efficiency of an air conditioner or heat pump. The higher the SEER, the greater the system’s energy efficiency.
T – Thermostat
Your thermostat allows you to control the temperature in your home by regulating your HVAC system.
U – UV Lights
HVAC UV lights are an effective means for improving indoor air quality by killing mold, bacteria, viruses and other pathogens.
V – Ventilation
Ventilation is the process of supplying fresh air to an enclosed space, and removing stale air, to maintain air quality.
W – Whole House Humidifier
This device works with your HVAC system to add moisture to your home’s air, thereby increasing comfort and reducing static electricity.
X – eXpansion Valve
The expansion valve controls the amount of refrigerant going into your evaporator coil, lowering the pressure and cooling the refrigerant.
Y – Yearly Maintenance
Consistent, yearly maintenance on your HVAC system can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of the system.
Z – Zoning
Zoning involves using multiple thermostats to control the temperature in specific areas, or “zones,” within your property.
Understanding the basics of HVAC terms and technologies can help you make better decisions about your home comfort and efficiency. Remember, should problems arise, it’s likely time to call in the professionals who are well-versed in the full A-Z of HVAC.