Skip to content

HVAC Lingo

This document contains an explanation of HVAC terminology, for those seeking to gain a comprehension of the language.

 

Table of Contents

 

  • Introduction
  • This guide explains HVAC terminology and definitions.
  • This guide provides an extensive overview of HVAC terminology.
  • This guide provides an overview of key terminology related to HVAC systems for those learning the basics.
  • This HVAC Glossary provides alphabetical terms and definitions.
  • This guide introduces key terminology and definitions for HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) for beginners.
  • Conclusion

 

With our comprehensive HVAC terms and definitions, you can gain an understanding of this topic.

HVAC is short for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is a system used to ensure thermal comfort and air quality in residential or commercial buildings. Understanding HVAC terminology is imperative for anyone working with this system. This article outlines several widely used HVAC terms and their definitions.

HVAC is a system that controls the air temperature and quality in homes and businesses to provide an optimal living environment.

This guide explains the terminology commonly associated with the HVAC industry to reduce confusion.

An air handler is a component of an HVAC system that circulates air and controls the temperature. It usually includes blower fans, heating/air conditioning components, sound attenuators, filter racks or chambers, and dampers.

An air conditioner is a device that lowers air temperature through the removal of heat. It generally consists of a compressor, condenser, expansion valve and an evaporator.

HVAC blower units consist of a fan, motor and housing to facilitate air movement.

A compressor is a device used to increase the pressure of a gas or vapor, commonly used in air conditioners to pressurize refrigerant gas.

A heat exchanger such as a a conditioner is used to convert the refrigerant gas from a vapor to a liquid via the process of heat removal.

An evaporator is a component used in air conditioning systems which utilizes the evaporation of a liquid to reduce the temperature of air.

Filters are often used in air handlers to decrease the amount of dust, pollen, and other particulates in the air.

Heat exchangers are devices that transfer heat between two mediums, such as in air conditioners, where they move heat from the refrigerant gas to the air.

A thermostat is a device used to control the temperature of an HVAC system, which consists of a sensor, controller, and actuator.

Ventilation is the process of introducing fresh air, and regulating humidity within an enclosed space, via the use of fans, ducts and dampers.

Zone control is a method of managing temperatures in different areas of a building, commonly achieved with multiple thermostats and dampers.

HVAC is the acronym for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, a system commonly installed in buildings to provide thermal comfort and proper indoor air quality. It is important to have an understanding of HVAC terminology as it supports successful installation and maintenance of the system. This guide provides common HVAC terms and definitions.

An air handler is a component of an HVAC system that controls the quality and circulation of air within a space. It usually consists of a blower, heating or cooling element, interior filter, sound attenuator and dampers.

An air conditioner is a device used to control the temperature and humidity of an area, sometimes in conjunction with a furnace for both heating and cooling.

A blower is a type of fan used in HVAC systems, typically powered by an electric motor.

Ductwork consists of pipes and tubes for distributing air from the air handler to each room’s ventilation outlets. Materials such as metal, fiberglass or plastic are commonly employed in its construction.

An HVAC system’s evaportion coil absorbs heat to cool air as the internal refrigerant vaporizes.

A furnace is a device that provides heated air throughout a building as part of an HVAC system, commonly using natural gas or electricity as the power source.

A heat pump is a device that facilitates the transfer of thermal energy between two locations and is often used with an air conditioner to provide both heating and cooling.

A thermostat is used to adjust the temperature inside a space by automatically activating and deactivating a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

Ventilation consists of exchanging air between the inside and outside of a building, by means of fans, vents and ducts, bringing in fresh air from the exterior while removing stale air.

It is essential to be familiar with the language of HVAC to ensure proper installation and maintenance. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of key terms and definitions.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is a systems that maintains the temperature, humidity, and air quality of an area. Knowledge of HVAC terminology is needed to work with these systems.

Heating involves raising the temperature of a space, typically with a furnace that uses fuels like gas, propane or electricity.

Ventilation involves swapping air between interior and exterior environments, which is typically done with an air handler and fans.

Air conditioning is a process for cooling an area, commonly done with the use of an air conditioner and a refrigerant.

A thermostat is a device that connects to an HVAC system and adjusts the settings to regulate the temperature of a room or area.

Ductwork is made up of metal or plastic piping and vents that distribute air in a space and connect to an air handler.

Filters installed in air handlers remove dust and dirt particles, which should be replaced frequently to ensure good air quality.

A heating pump is a device used for the transfer of thermal energy from one area to another. It can be used to provide heat in colder temperatures and cooling during the summer months.

Familiarity with HVAC system terminology is required for configuring, managing or repairing such systems.

Air Conditioning controls the temperature and humidity in an enclosed space.

A blower is a device used for circulating air in HVAC systems.

A compressor is a device that increases the pressure and temperature of refrigerant gas by compressing it.

Ductwork is the system of pipes and tubes used to transport air throughout a building.

An evaporator coil is a type of tubing used to reduce the heat in an HVAC system.

A furnace provides heating to an area.

Heat exchangers facilitate the transfer of heat between two separate sources.

Insulation is a material used to reduce heat or sound transfer.

One joule is a unit of energy that signifies the work done when one newton is applied to an object for one meter.

A kilowatt is a unit of power equal to 1000 watts.

Load Calculation involves calculating the heating or cooling requirement for an area.

Maintenance of HVAC systems involves inspecting, cleaning and servicing.

Noise reduction is achieved by minimizing the sound generated by an HVAC system.

Air from the outdoors is used for cooling or heating indoor spaces.

The air pressure decreases as it passes through an HVAC system.

Refrigerant is a substance used to transfer heat from one source to another.

The thermostat is used to adjust the temperature in a given space.

A Unitary System is a type of HVAC system that combines heating, cooling, and ventilation.

Ventilation consists of introducing fresh air and removing stale air from an area.

A watt is a unit of power equal to one joule per second.

X-Refrigerant is a type of refrigerant used in some HVAC systems.

Zone Control allows distinct areas of a building to have independent heating or cooling settings.

Understanding HVAC systems is essential since they are frequently used in contemporary residential and commercial settings. This guide provides an overview of some of the relevant terminology related to HVAC systems.

An air handler is a device that moves and disperses air in a building, working together with a furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump to create a comfortable environment.

An air conditioner is a device that removes heat and moisture from the air to regulate temperatures. It generally runs on electricity.

A furnace is a device that utilizes fuel such as natural gas, propane, or oil to generate heat within a structure to maintain an internal temperature.

A heat pump is an electrical device that transfers heat from one area to another for temperature control in domestic and commercial settings.

A thermostat is a device used to regulate the temperature in a given space. It may be connected to a furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump in order to create a comfortable environment in residential or commercial buildings.

Ductwork consists of pipes and vents which transport air throughout a building. It is typically connected to an HVAC unit and facilitates the distribution of conditioned air in the space.

Filters are used to reduce contaminants from the air in homes and businesses. They are typically incorporated with a furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump to improve the quality of the air.

Refrigerant is a substance that transfers heat from one area to another and is commonly utilized in air conditioners and heat pumps to help regulate temperatures in residential or commercial spaces.

Acquainting yourself with terminology related to HVAC systems can support your ability to install and manage the unit effectively.

Understanding HVAC terminology and definitions is important for professionals in the HVAC industry. Keeping up to date with developments in this field can help guarantee a job is properly done. Having adequate knowledge allows HVAC specialists to provide customers with satisfactory service.

 

 

Questions

Questions used across top search results:

  • Client testimonials about our services.
  • How Does it Work?
  • What is an HVAC Contractor?
  • Is installing a rooftop system suitable for your building?
  • Would you benefit from installing a rooftop system?
  • What to Know When It’s Time to Buy a New HVAC System
  • Is Your Heat Pump Crying Out for Help in Glendale, AZ?
  • Is Your Phoenix, AZ HVAC System Impacting Your Sleep?

 

The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCAA) is a trade association for the AC industry, offering consumer resources such as a Quality Installation Checklist that can be used to select an appropriate HVAC contractor.

Anchor Text: great consumer resources

External Link: http://www.acca.org/consumer

HVAC Topic Clusters

Topics referenced across search results organized in clusters:

heat

  • heat
  • heat pump
  • heat exchanger
  • heat moves
  • heat to air
  • heat transfer
  • latent heat
  • transfer of heat
  • heat loss
  • heat pump unit

temperature

  • temperature
  • indoor temperature
  • air temperature
  • Dry Bulb Temperature
  • balanced temperature
  • liquid refrigerant temperature
  • minimum temperature
  • saturation temperature
  • stable supply-air temperature
  • temperature control demand

systems

  • systems
  • split systems
  • constant air volume system
  • forced-air system
  • Matched Systems
  • self-contained system
  • split system air conditioner
  • split-ducted system
  • split-ductless system
  • split-zoning system

coil

  • coil
  • condenser coil
  • evaporator coils
  • outdoor coil
  • heating coil
  • indoor coil

space

  • space
  • unconditioned space
  • cold space
  • indoor space
  • plenum space

filter

  • filter
  • air filter
  • central filter
  • filter grilles
  • filter terms

building

  • building
  • commercial buildings
  • building envelope
  • building floor

conditioning

  • conditioning
  • Air Conditioning
  • central air conditioning
  • air conditioning unit

pressure

  • pressure
  • atmospheric pressure
  • Pressure dependent
  • Pressure drop

ducts

  • ducts
  • air ducts
  • return duct
  • supply duct

thermal loads

condenser fan

units per hour

Particulate Arrestance

gas furnace heat exchanger

gas furnace heat exchanger

heat energy

heat from liquid

heat gain

high-temperate heat

type of heat

temperature scale

Direct Current

electrical current

Refrigeration Institute

airborne particles

 

 

Topic Clusters

Topics referenced across search results organized in clusters:

heat

  • heat
  • heat pump
  • heat exchanger
  • heat moves
  • heat to air
  • heat transfer
  • latent heat
  • transfer of heat
  • heat loss
  • heat pump unit

temperature

  • temperature
  • indoor temperature
  • air temperature
  • Dry Bulb Temperature
  • balanced temperature
  • liquid refrigerant temperature
  • minimum temperature
  • saturation temperature
  • stable supply-air temperature
  • temperature control demand

systems

  • systems
  • split systems
  • constant air volume system
  • forced-air system
  • Matched Systems
  • self-contained system
  • split system air conditioner
  • split-ducted system
  • split-ductless system
  • split-zoning system

coil

  • coil
  • condenser coil
  • evaporator coils
  • outdoor coil
  • heating coil
  • indoor coil

space

  • space
  • unconditioned space
  • cold space
  • indoor space
  • plenum space

filter

  • filter
  • air filter
  • central filter
  • filter grilles
  • filter terms

building

  • building
  • commercial buildings
  • building envelope
  • building floor

conditioning

  • conditioning
  • Air Conditioning
  • central air conditioning
  • air conditioning unit

pressure

  • pressure
  • atmospheric pressure
  • Pressure dependent
  • Pressure drop

ducts

  • ducts
  • air ducts
  • return duct
  • supply duct
  • measurement of energy
  • radiant heating
  • transfer to air
  • air flow volume
  • common type
  • scheduling service
  • thermal expansion valve
  • air conditioner repair
  • repair company
  • central unit
  • electrical energy
  • times per hour
  • R-22 refrigerant
  • purchasing decisions
  • pre-set schedule
  • Polyvinyl chloride
  • parallel openings
  • organic compound
  • Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value
  • mechanical engineering
  • humid climates
  • gas phase
  • extensive glossary
  • Department of Energy
  • air exchange rate
  • Package Unit
  • BTUs per hour
  • liquid from vapor form

    winter months

    measurement of airflow volume

    harmful particles

    airflow rate

    coils in air handlers

    speeds during times

    period of time

    combustion chamber

    air for combustion

    Heating and Refrigeration Institute

    basic refrigeration cycle

    current along wires

    temperature difference

    temperature requirements

    direction of heat flow

    heat from air

    heat load calculation

    measurement of heat efficiency

    measurement of heat intensity

    ratio of heat output

    central air conditioners

    type of air conditioner

    unit of measurement

    vital step

    movement of air

    fan-coil units

    air-handling unit

    air with vanes going

    Industry Terms

    indoor unit

    outdoor unit

HVAC

ACCAAir Conditioning Contractors of America, the trade association for the AC industry. Check out their great consumer resources, including the Quality Installation Checklist you can use to select a good HVAC contractor.

Anchor Text: Air Conditioning Contractors of America

External Link: http://www.acca.org/

Statistics

Factual sentences referenced across top search results:

  • For example, a furnace with a 80% AFUE rating means that 80% of the fuel is converted into heat while 20% is lost through exhaust. (happyhiller.com)
  • If your AFUE rating is below 80%, consider replacing your unit with a more energy-efficient one. (happyhiller.com)
  • An air handler that conditions 100% outside air. (en.wikipedia.org)
  • The ratio of current humidity to the humidity if the air were 100% saturated. (servicechampions.net)
  • on New HVAC Equipment 0% APR for 12 Months Promo Code: HVACZERO (servicechampions.net)
  • For instance, a furnace AFUE rating of 95 converts 95% of the gas that you’re paying for to heat your home. (angi.com)
  • The other 5% exits from the flue (exhaust) pipe. (angi.com)Statistics are an important part of the HVAC industry. By understanding the numbers behind a system and its components, it is possible to make informed decisions on which systems and models to install, as well as how to maintain them. Commonly used statistics include AFUE ratings, air handlers, humidity ratios, and 0% APR promotions. An AFUE rating is an efficiency rating for furnaces that

 

ASHRAE: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers is a global society advancing human well-being through sustainable technology for the built environment. The Society and its members focus on building systems, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, refrigeration and sustainability within the industry. Their website can be found at www.ashrae.org B BTU: A British Thermal Unit is a measurement of the amount of heat required to raise or lower the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit.

Anchor Text: www.ashrae.org

External Link: http://www.ashrae.org/

Leave a Reply

Air Conditioning Repair & New AC Unit Replacement HVAC repair Phoenix