The acronym “HVAC” stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. HVAC systems are the combination of various separate components. The typical HVAC system includes a:
- Central Air-Conditioning Unit
- Heating System
- Ventilation System
Central Air-Conditioning Unit
A major component of HVAC systems is the central air-conditioning unit. It cools and dehumidifies the air before it circulates it throughout your home. These units are typically located outdoors due to the noise generated during the cooling process.
Heating System
Heating systems consist of either a furnace, heat pump, or a boiler. Some homes located in colder climates have both a heat pump and furnace.
- The heat pump warms the home during times when the weather isn’t extremely cold (temperatures above freezing).
- The furnace warms the home when outdoor temperatures fall below freezing.
Heat pumps generate up to three times more heat than the energy they use. The reason is that heat pumps draw heat from the outdoor air and pull it into your home. They are a much more efficient way to warm your home than boilers or furnaces.
Furnaces draw their power from heating oil, natural gas, propane, or electricity. Considering the ever-rising price of electricity nowadays, propane and natural gas are typically more economical sources of energy than heating oil or electricity for heating your home.
Ventilation
Ventilation systems consist of:
- ductwork
- intake registers
- outflow vents (enabling the circulation of heated/cooled air throughout your home)
Heating and air-conditioning units depend on your home’s ductwork system to provide a flow of incoming air and to distribute conditioned air.
For more information on HVAC systems, contact your local HVAC service company.
Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC
