What is a HVAC System?

HVAC Defined

HVAC is an acronym for the functioning parts of a total system for indoor air comfort relating to temperature. HVAC designs have advanced to also manage aspects of indoor air quality relating to air purity, humidity and zoned air distribution. HVAC systems are also known as "Central Air Conditioning", "Central Heating System" or "Forced Air Systems". All HVAC systems are controlled by a thermostat which is a programmable device which is used to set and maintain the air temperature in a residential or commercial building.

Heating

Central heating may utilize a boiler, furnace or heat pump to heat water, steam or air in a central location and the heated element is then forced through ductwork or pipes to distribute the heat throughout the structure. Forced air systems utilize ductwork to distribute heated air whereas boiler systems utilize radiators (heat exchangers) to deliver heat by convection.

Ventilation

Ventilation is the process of replacing air in a home or building to replenish oxygen (fresh air) and remove some heat, dust, carbon dioxide and moisture from the living environment. Ventilation systems vary from ceiling vents in bathrooms to exhaust fans in kitchens and direct introduction of outside air through fans or natural flow from open windows.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning and refrigeration are done through the removal of heat. The process involves a compressor which vaporizes the refrigerant, the vapor is cooled by heat exchange with the outside air. Th vapor then turns into a liquid in the condensor coil and is pumped to the evaporator. The evaporator allows heat to be collected and the (now warmer) fluid is returned to the compressor.

An air conditioner system can fail or fail to adequately cool without proper HVAC Maintenance Service. Every HVAC system requires cleaning, filter changes and inspections to provide optimum performance abnd avoid system failures in extreme outdoor temperature ranges.