The ABCs of HVAC: Understanding Common Terms
The ABC's of HVAC
The terminology surrounding your HVAC system can become overwhelming and complex. In this article, we review some of the most common heating, ventilation, and air conditioning terms to provide you with the knowledge to make an informed decision whether for a repair or the installation of a new unit.
Air Handler
The HVAC systems indoor element that circulates conditioned air throughout the home or office.
British Thermal Unit (BTU)
A unit of measurement used to identify the heating energy needed to increase the temperature of one pound of water by one degree.
Condenser
The external unit of an air conditioning system that transfers the indoor air to the outdoor environment.
Dampers
Adjustable valves inside ductwork that allows you to adjust the airflow in different rooms.
Evaporator Coil
The part of a heat pump or A/C unit which absorbs the heat from the inside of the home then causes it to evaporate.
Filter
Used to improve indoor air quality, an air filter removes particles from passing through the HVAC system.
Gas Furnace
A furnace that is fueled by natural gas or propane which is used to heat the home.
Humidifier
For added comfort and health, a humidifier can be included or installed on your HVAC system to assist in adding moisture to the air and throughout the home.
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
Humidity levels, ventilation, and pollutants that contribute to the overall health and cleanliness of the indoor air at your home or office.
Joule
A unit or measurement used to identify the output of heat and the consumption of energy of an HVAC system.
Kilowatt (kW)
A unit of power which measures the rate the HVAC system consumes or produces.
Load Calculation
Factors like size, insulation, and occupancy are considered when determining the heating and cooling requirements of a home or office.
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV)
MERV ratings indicates an air filters ability to capture airborne particles. The higher the MERV rating, the better the air filter is.
Noise Level
Measured in decibels (dB), this is the amount of sound that an HVAC system produces during operation.
Outdoor Unit
The part of your HVAC system that is located outdoors, like condensers, compressors, or heat pump systems.
Programmable Thermostat
To optimize your energy usage, a programmable thermostat allows for adjustments during times when you are away or for different times of the day while the sun is out or when the sun sets.
Quench Coil
As part of the dehumidification of your home, this is a heat exchanger that cool and condenses moisture from air that is humid.
Reversing Valve
A valve that controls the direction of refrigerant flow which allows you to switch between heating and cooling options.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
By dividing the cooling output by the total energy consumed, this measures the efficiency of the unit.
Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV)
A valve that controls the refrigerant that moves into the evaporator coil which helps to regulate it for ideal efficiency.
UV Light
Used to kill or inhibit the growth of contaminants, an ultraviolet light is installed with your HVAC system.
Ventilation
To maintain indoor air quality, this is the process of exchanging indoor air to the outdoor environment.
Weatherization
Sealing or insulating your home or office to prevent leakage and to reduce energy cost and increase your comfortability.
Yield
The comparison of heating and cooling to the amount of energy that is being consumed which indicates the systems efficiency.
Zoning
The division of your ventilation system to heat or cool specific zones or areas of your home or office building. This allows for independent control of the zoned areas.
With a basic understanding of HVAC terms, you can make an informed decision regarding your HVAC system. When you choose to work with the professionals at Apex Heating & Air, we take the time to answer you questions, give you options, and ensure you have all the details needed to make the right choice for your home or office. Give us a call today and let us know how we can help with your HVAC in Phoenix, Glendale, and all surrounding areas.
(602) 872-4832
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