Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and comfort. Whether you are a professional in the field or a homeowner looking to understand more about your system, knowing essential HVAC terms can be beneficial.
Here’s a comprehensive list of 50 key HVAC terms and their meanings:
1. Air Handler- A unit that circulates and regulates air as part of an HVAC system.
2. BTU (British Thermal Unit)- A measurement of heat energy; one BTU is the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
3. CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)- A measurement of airflow volume; indicates the amount of air moved by a system per minute.
4. Compressor- The component in an HVAC system that pressurizes refrigerant to cool or heat a space.
5. Condenser Coil- A heat exchanger that releases heat from refrigerant into the outside air.
6. Ductwork- A network of tubes that distribute air throughout a building.
7. Evaporator Coil- A coil in an air handler that absorbs heat from indoor air.
8. Refrigerant- A chemical compound that absorbs and releases heat to provide cooling and heating.
9. Thermostat- A device that regulates temperature by controlling HVAC systems.
10. SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)- A rating that measures the efficiency of an air conditioning unit.
11. AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)- A measure of furnace efficiency expressed as a percentage.
12. Heat Pump- A device that transfers heat between indoor and outdoor environments for heating or cooling.
13. HVAC Load Calculation- The process of determining the heating and cooling needs of a space.
14. Dehumidifier- A device that removes excess moisture from the air.
15. Humidifier- A device that adds moisture to the air.
16. VAV (Variable Air Volume)- A type of HVAC system that controls airflow based on demand.
17. Zoning System- A system that divides a building into different climate-controlled areas.
18. Air Filter- A component that removes dust and contaminants from the air.
19. Heat Exchanger- A device that transfers heat from one medium to another.
20. ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator)- A system that exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering heat and humidity.
21. HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator)- Similar to an ERV but focuses on heat exchange without humidity control.
22. Dampers- Adjustable plates that regulate airflow in ducts.
23. Static Pressure- The resistance to airflow in an HVAC system.
24. Blower Motor- A motor that drives the fan in an HVAC system.
25. Capacitor- A device that stores electrical energy to help start HVAC motors.
26. Expansion Valve- A valve that regulates refrigerant flow into the evaporator coil.
27. Condensate Drain- A drainage system that removes excess moisture collected by an HVAC system.
28. Split System- A type of HVAC system with separate indoor and outdoor units.
29. Packaged System- An all-in-one HVAC unit containing heating and cooling components.
30. Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV)- A device that controls refrigerant flow to improve efficiency.
31. HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)- A measure of heat pump efficiency.
32. MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value)- A rating system for air filter efficiency.
33. Ductless Mini-Split- A heating and cooling system that does not require ductwork.
34. Radiant Heating- A heating method that transfers heat directly from surfaces to people and objects.
35. Scroll Compressor- A type of compressor known for high efficiency and reliability.
36. Plenum- A chamber in an HVAC system that distributes or collects air.
37. Return Air- Air that is drawn back into an HVAC system for reconditioning.
38. Supply Air- Conditioned air that is delivered to a space.
39. Economizer- A device that uses outside air for cooling when conditions allow.
40. Cycling Rate- The frequency with which an HVAC system turns on and off.
41. Setpoint- The desired temperature setting on a thermostat.
42. Air Balancing- Adjusting an HVAC system for even air distribution.
43. Insulation- Material that reduces heat loss or gain in HVAC systems.
44. Latent Heat- The energy absorbed or released during phase changes, such as condensation or evaporation.
45. Sensible Heat- Heat that changes temperature but not state.
46. Chiller- A machine that removes heat from liquid for cooling applications.
47. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF)- A system that adjusts refrigerant flow to match demand.
48. Two-Stage Compressor- A compressor that operates at two levels for efficiency.
49. Load Shedding- The process of reducing energy consumption during peak demand.
50. Air Changes Per Hour (ACH)- The number of times air in a space is replaced within an hour.
Conclusion
Understanding HVAC terminology is essential for anyone involved in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. These 50 terms provide a foundation for better communication and decision-making in the field. Whether you are maintaining, repairing, or installing an HVAC system, knowing these terms will enhance your knowledge and efficiency.
