The world of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can be daunting, especially when faced with a barrage of technical jargon. As a homeowner, understanding HVAC terminology is crucial for effective communication with professionals, making informed decisions, and maintaining your home’s comfort efficiently. In this blog, we’ll decode common HVAC terminology to empower you with the knowledge needed to navigate the intricacies of your home’s heating and cooling systems.
Common HVAC Terminology
A
AC (Alternating Current)
An electric current that periodically reverses direction, commonly used in residential and commercial electrical systems.
Air Handler
Indoor part of the HVAC system that circulates cooled or heated air throughout the building.
Airflow Volume
The amount of air that the HVAC system moves through your home measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). Think of it as how much air is circulating.
B
BTU (British Thermal Unit)
A unit of heat energy used in the heating and cooling industry to measure how much heating or cooling a system can provide.
Burner
The component in a heating system that produces the flame for heating, like in a furnace.
C
Coil
A heat exchanger component in the HVAC system, mounted inside an air handling unit or ductwork. The coils are what increases or decreases the temperature via heat transfer. Essentially, it’s like a set of pipes that help with heating or cooling.
Compressor
A key component of the refrigeration system, it is a device that makes the refrigerant in your HVAC system hotter, preparing it to release heat and making it ready for the cycle to repeat. The condenser plays a key role in maintaining the efficiency of the cooling process in your HVAC system.
Condenser
Part of the outdoor unit in an air conditioning system where refrigerant releases heat and turns from a vapor to a liquid.
D
Ductwork
The system of tubes that carry air throughout your home. Think of them as air highways.
Dehumidifier
A machine that removes extra moisture from the air. Helpful for comfort and preventing mold.
E
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
A measure of the energy efficiency of an HVAC system, calculated by dividing cooling capacity by power consumption.
Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is a vital component in your HVAC system responsible for cooling indoor air. It works by absorbing heat from the air, turning liquid refrigerant into a gas in the process.
F
Filter
Filters play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality by trapping dust, dirt, and other particles. Regularly changing or cleaning your filters ensures efficient airflow, keeps your system running smoothly, and improves the air you breathe at home.
Freon
Freon, or refrigerant, is a substance circulating through your HVAC system that changes between gas and liquid states to facilitate heat transfer. It absorbs heat inside your home and releases it outside, contributing to the cooling process in air conditioners. It’s essential for efficient heat exchange in your system.
H
Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is a component that transfers heat from one fluid (like combustion gases) to another (like the air that circulates in your home). In heating systems, it ensures that the warm air produced by the furnace is delivered to your living spaces.
Heat Pump
A heat pump is a versatile HVAC system that both heats and cools your home. In winter, it extracts warmth from the outdoor air and brings it inside, and in summer, it reverses the process to cool your indoor space. Efficient and environmentally friendly, a heat pump is a year-round solution for maintaining a comfortable home environment.Get the details on heat pumps and which is the best for your home.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
The system responsible for providing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in buildings.
Humidifier
Humidifiers add moisture to the air, benefiting both your health and home. In winter, when heating systems can make the air dry, humidifiers prevent issues like dry skin and respiratory discomfort. They contribute to a more comfortable living environment.
HVAC Load Calculation
This calculation assesses the heating and cooling requirements of your home, factoring in its size, insulation, windows, and local climate. Understanding your HVAC load helps determine the appropriately sized system for energy efficiency and optimal comfort.
M
MERV Rating (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value)
MERV ratings indicate how effectively an air filter can capture airborne particles. Higher MERV ratings mean better filtration, reducing allergens and improving indoor air quality. However, it’s crucial to balance high efficiency with the need for proper airflow.
P
Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set temperature schedules, optimizing energy usage. This technology enables you to adjust temperatures automatically, reducing energy consumption when you’re away or asleep and enhancing comfort when you’re at home.
R
Radiation or Radiant Heating/Cooling
Radiant heating/cooling systems transfer heat through objects or surfaces. In cold weather, they radiate warmth to occupants, creating a cozy environment. Conversely, in cooling systems, they absorb excess heat, contributing to a comfortable indoor temperature. This method offers an alternative to traditional forced-air systems.
Refrigerant
A liquid substance used in HVAC systems that is responsible for making the air cool. It absorbs heat from inside your home, turns it into a gas, then releases it outside, ready to repeat the cycle. It’s the key player in the cooling process, ensuring your indoor environment stays comfortably chilled.
Refrigerant Lines
These are the pipelines of your cooling system, carrying the refrigerant back and forth between the indoor and outdoor units. As it journeys through these lines, it transforms from a liquid to a gas and back again, making the whole cooling magic happen.
S
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)
A measure of the efficiency of an air conditioning system over an entire cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficiently your system turns electricity into cooling power. It’s a bit like getting more miles per gallon in a car – a higher SEER means you’re getting more cool air for the energy you use, which is great for your comfort and your wallet.
Split System or Zoned
An HVAC system with components both inside and outside the building, or a system that allows for different temperature zones within a building.
T
Thermostat
A device that controls the temperature of a heating or cooling system by sensing and regulating it.
V
Vents/Registers
Openings in the HVAC system where air is released or received into the living space.