The Basics Of HVAC: Terms First-Time Buyers Should Know
The HVAC industry is full of unique terminologies, and a first-time buyer might find the acronyms and terms overwhelming. You need to know what these terms mean to make an informed decision about the systems you're installing in your home.
The first term you should be aware of is HVAC, which stands for Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning. The home's AC and heating system heats and cools it through appliances like the air conditioner and the furnace. Your HVAC is also responsible for keeping your home ventilated and ensuring you have fresh air circulating inside it. Here are other words and definitions that all buyers should know before settling on an AC and heating system.
1. Terms Related To Cooling
If your home has high humidity or has a lot of water vapor in the air, you would benefit from having a dehumidifier. This device keeps your home's humidity levels at 30 to 50 percent. Meanwhile, if you live in a dry region, a humidifier might be more suitable for you. This device adds moisture to the air, keeping your surroundings healthier and more comfortable.
The evaporator coil is a device inside your home. It is part of the air conditioning system and removes heat from the air using refrigerant, which removes heat from the air. Modern HVAC systems use R410A, a type of refrigerant that does not cause ozone layer damage. In the past, AC units used R-22 Freon, which was more dangerous to the environment.
The condenser unit is a large outdoor component of your AC and heating system. As the name implies, it removes heat from the refrigerant, turning it into a liquid. The condenser unit contains the condenser fan, which pushes air over coils and removes heat from the refrigerant.
2. Terms Related To Heating
A heat pump is appropriate for homes in moderate climates and can both heat and cool a house. There are three types of heat pumps: air-to-air, geothermal, and pumps that use a water source.
The counterpoint to the AC is the furnace, which uses natural gas or electricity to heat air and circulate it through ducts and fans. Homes with central heating and cooling have ducts. These air passages blow conditioned air into the home. You will generally find ducts in the basement, attic, or crawl space of a home.
If you have a gas furnace, you also have a heat exchanger. This device separates breathable air from the gas combustion the furnace uses to create heat. If you crack your heat exchanger, you would need to replace the furnace. Finally, a gas furnace has a flue or a vent for the byproducts of combustion.
3. Helpful Measurements And Concepts
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, which is the amount of heat your home needs to lower or raise the home's temperature by one degree Fahrenheit. The AC and heating system's capacity indicates the amount of cooling or heating your equipment can produce in BTUs per hour.
Another concept that measures an HVAC's efficiency is the SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The SEER rating describes the cooling equipment's output; the higher a rating, the cooler air the equipment produces. Typically, SEER ratings are between 13 and 21.
Zoning is a way of dividing your home into regions. When you maximize zoning, you can heat or cool different parts of your home independently, which can increase your energy efficiency.
4. Relevant Programs And Organizations
The EPA or Environmental Protection Agency is the federal government agency tasked with enforcing regulations that protect the environment and human health. One of the ways the EPA protects health is through the Energy Star program. Heating and cooling equipment with this certification are highly energy efficient. Energy Star-certified HVAC contractors follow best practices in the industry.
Besides having Energy Star certification, HVAC professionals also make sure they are part of industry organizations like ACCA or the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. This body provides standards, codes, and accreditation to professionals.
HVAC contractors might also undergo further training under NATE or the North American Technician Excellence, a nonprofit organization focused on training and certifying HVAC professionals.
Conclusion
Finding the right heating and cooling system for your home can be daunting, especially if you don't know what all the HVAC acronyms and terms mean. Learning the terms and familiarizing yourself with the definitions will undoubtedly help.
Hire Aircor Air Conditioning And Heating for your AC and heater needs. We are Chicago's premier heating and air conditioning service, specializing in residential and commercial installation. Set an appointment with us today to learn more!
