The Romans were the first people to have a heating system in their buildings in the 2nd century BC.
Since then, we have come a long way with the ability to heat and cool our properties at the touch of a button. If you are interested in heating systems and what HVAC is, we have created this guide for you.
We will take you through the basics of a working HVAC system, and why it is essential to have a regular HVAC service to keep everything in top shape.
What Does HVAC Mean?
HVAC is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is the name given to the systems in a building that regulate temperature, from the heating and cooling units to the ducts and vents that distribute air.
It keeps you warm in winter and cools you in the summer, and for many, it is the most important part of their home.
Several standard components compromise an HVAC system that you will find in most properties.
The Furnace
The largest component in an HVAC system is the furnace, and it will take up the most significant amount of space on your property. Often, furnace installations are in the basement, as they generate a lot of heat. Heat rises from the basement through the air ducts and warms the house above.
Furnaces are different from boilers which heat water in your home rather than air.
The Heat Exchanger
This component is built inside the furnace but is a separate element from it.
The heat exchanger adds additional heat to that generated by the furnace in the combustion chamber. This component can break down quickly if the air ducts above become clogged, a major factor in heating and air conditioning repair callouts.
The Evaporator Coil
This component generates cooler air from the furnace by absorbing the hot air and cooling it with refrigerant liquid. This air then passes into the air ducts and cools your home instead of heating it.
The Heat Pump
This versatile tool allows you to change the HVAC system from hot to cold. It is the mechanism by which hot air is pumped out of the building in summer and vice versa in winter. It doesn’t generate heat itself but moves the hot and cold air created by the furnace and evaporator coils.
The Thermostat
This is the tool you use to change the temperature inside your home. It allows you to turn on the heating and air conditioning systems that regulate the internal temperature. Some thermostat systems will alert you if there is a problem that requires HVAC maintenance.
The Ducts and Vents
These are the arteries of the HVAC system. The ductwork threads its way through your home, allowing the movement of air. The vents are installed in each room to allow the air to enter.
Regular HVAC Service Keeps the System Operational
An HVAC system is a sum of all its parts. These components need to work together to achieve the perfect temperature inside your home. If one is out of alignment, you will need an HVAC service from a professional to restore the system.
If your HVAC needs servicing or maintenance, please get in touch, and we will be happy to help.