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What this common term means and a breakdown of the major components that make it work.
If you’re an HGTV junkie or watch a lot of home improvement shows, you may hear the acronym “HVAC” a lot, but may not really know what it means.
Don’t worry…you’re not alone.
The only people who generally understand all of what the term HVAC ecompasses are home designers, heating and air technicians, and others who deal with these machines every day.
A layman’s definition of HVAC
HVAC stands for “heating, ventilation and air conditioning.” This term encompasses your entire heating and air system, including your A/C, heat pump or furnace, and air ducts. An HVAC system is now standard in every modern home and building because it is the most efficient way to heat and cool a large space.
The main function of an HVAC system is to keep the air in your home at a comfortable level. The air is pushed through a series of ducts and out of vents into each room, which allows for the even distribution of warm or cool air. It also works to keep the indoor humidity at a safe and healthy level.
Main parts of an HVAC system
Now that you understand a little bit more about what an HVAC system is and does, let’s break it down a little further and look at the main components of an HVAC system and what they do:
- Heating. The heating component of an HVAC system is generally either a gas/electric furnace or a heat pump (or sometimes both if you have what’s called a “dual fuel” system). While a furnace has an ignitor and burners that heat the air, a heat pump pulls warm air from outside and brings it in through the evaporator coil.
- Ventilation. Ventilation is a very important part of the HVAC system because it includes all of the essential pieces for moving air and removing harmful particles and excess moisture. The ventilation system includes all of the air ducts, filters, air vents and exhaust fans.
- Air conditioning. An air conditioner’s main function is cooling and monitoring temperature through a thermostat, but it’s also responsible for controlling humidity. Most HVAC system have a split-system A/C, which means part of it is inside and part is outside. The compressor and condenser are located outside, while the evaporator and expansion valve are located inside.
Importance of regular HVAC maintenance
Your HVAC system is vital part of your home, health and comfort, so it’s very important to have regular maintenance done to your heating and air to keep it running smoothly. You can also avoid major repairs just by having an experienced HVAC technician perform a check-up on your furnace before the start of winter and your A/C before the beginning of summer.
Richmond’s Air has a skilled group of HVAC specialists that can take care of all of your heating, ventilation and A/C maintenance and repair needs. If you live in the metro-Houston area, give us a call today.
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