- HVAC: Stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, a system designed to control temperature, humidity, and air quality in indoor spaces.
- Thermostat: A device that allows users to control the temperature settings of an HVAC system. It can be digital or analog.
- Furnace: A heating system that burns fuel (usually natural gas, oil, or electricity) to generate heat for a building.
- Air Handler: Part of an HVAC system that circulates air through the heating or cooling unit and then into the living spaces.
- Condenser Unit: The outdoor component of an air conditioning system that releases heat from the refrigerant into the outside air.
- Evaporator Coil: Located inside the air handler or ductwork, it absorbs heat from the indoor air and cools it.
- Refrigerant: A substance used in air conditioning systems to transfer heat between indoor and outdoor units.
- Ductwork: A system of pipes or channels used to distribute conditioned air throughout a building.
- HVAC Filter: A component that traps dust, debris, and particles from the air to improve indoor air quality and system efficiency.
- Heat Pump: A device that can both heat and cool by transferring heat between the indoor and outdoor environments.
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): A rating that measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system. Higher SEER ratings indicate greater efficiency.
- AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): A rating that measures the efficiency of a furnace or boiler. Higher AFUE ratings indicate greater efficiency.
- Humidifier: An accessory in an HVAC system that adds moisture to the indoor air to maintain comfortable humidity levels.
- Dehumidifier: An accessory that removes excess moisture from the indoor air to reduce humidity levels.
- Vents: Openings in walls, floors, or ceilings where conditioned air is distributed into rooms.
- Zoning: The practice of dividing a building into multiple HVAC zones, each with its own thermostat, to optimize energy usage and comfort.
- BTU (British Thermal Unit): A unit of measurement for heat energy. It’s often used to describe the heating or cooling capacity of HVAC systems.
- Heat Exchanger: A component that transfers heat between two fluids without allowing them to mix, commonly found in furnaces and boilers.
- Ductless Mini-Split System: An HVAC system that doesn’t require ductwork and consists of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor air-handling units.
- Energy Star: A certification program that identifies energy-efficient products, including HVAC systems, that meet specific performance criteria.
- Compressor: A vital component of the air conditioning system that pressurizes and circulates the refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units.
- Condensate Drain: A pipe or drain line that removes excess water produced during the cooling process, preventing damage and mold growth.
- Airflow: The movement of air through the HVAC system, which is critical for distributing conditioned air and maintaining comfort.
- Heat Exchanger: In a gas furnace, it’s a component that transfers heat from the combustion process to the indoor air without mixing them.
- R-Value: A measure of the thermal resistance of insulation. Higher R-values indicate better insulation properties.
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): A ratio that measures the cooling efficiency of an air conditioning system under specific conditions.
- MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value): A rating that indicates the efficiency of an HVAC filter in trapping particles. Higher MERV ratings mean better filtration.
- Humidistat: A device that measures and controls humidity levels in an HVAC system, often used in conjunction with a humidifier.
- Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV): A ventilation system that exchanges indoor and outdoor air to improve air quality while conserving energy.
- Duct Insulation: Material applied to the interior of ductwork to prevent heat loss or gain and to reduce noise transmission.
- Load Calculation: A process used to determine the heating and cooling requirements for a building, essential for sizing HVAC equipment correctly.
- Air Purifier: A device integrated into an HVAC system to remove airborne contaminants, allergens, and pollutants from the air.
- Thermostat Programming: The ability to set schedules and temperature presets to optimize energy use and comfort.
- Air Balancing: The process of adjusting airflow within an HVAC system to ensure even distribution of conditioned air to all parts of a building.
- UV-C Light: Ultraviolet light used in HVAC systems to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including mold and bacteria.
- IAQ (Indoor Air Quality): A measure of the cleanliness and healthiness of the air inside a building, including factors like humidity, pollutants, and ventilation.
- Heat Loss: The amount of heat a building loses to the environment, which must be compensated for by the heating system.
- Heat Gain: The amount of heat a building gains from external sources, which must be managed by the cooling system.
- Load Shedding: A strategy to reduce energy consumption during peak demand by temporarily adjusting HVAC settings.
- Hydronic Heating: A heating system that uses water or other liquids to transfer heat, commonly found in radiant floor heating systems.
- Dampers: Adjustable plates or valves in ductwork that control the flow of air to different zones or rooms, allowing for better temperature control.
- Air Return: An opening or duct that allows indoor air to flow back to the HVAC system for reconditioning.
- Airside Economizer: A component that allows an HVAC system to use outdoor air for cooling when conditions are favorable, reducing energy consumption.
- Load Profile: A detailed analysis of a building’s heating and cooling requirements, taking into account factors like occupancy, insulation, and climate.
- Plenum: A space within a building, typically above a drop ceiling or below a raised floor, where ductwork and other HVAC components are installed.
- Backup Heat: Additional heating source, such as electric resistance heaters, used when the primary heating system (e.g., heat pump) can’t meet heating demands in extreme cold.
- Static Pressure: The resistance to airflow in a duct system, measured in inches of water column (in WC), which affects the efficiency of air distribution.
- IAQ Sensor: Sensors that monitor indoor air quality parameters like temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide (CO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- Air Change Rate: The number of times per hour that the entire volume of air within a space is replaced with fresh outdoor air, crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality.
- Zoning System: A method of dividing a building into different heating and cooling zones with individual temperature control for each zone.
- VAV (Variable Air Volume) System: An HVAC system that adjusts the volume of conditioned air delivered to different zones based on heating and cooling needs.
- SEER Rating: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio for air conditioners, indicating efficiency over the entire cooling season.
- HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): A measure of heating efficiency for heat pumps.
- HVAC Load Calculation Software: Computer programs that assist in accurately determining the heating and cooling loads for a building.
- Scroll Compressor: A type of compressor commonly used in air conditioning systems due to its efficiency and reliability.
- Pressure Switch: A safety device that monitors pressure within the HVAC system to ensure safe operation and can shut down the system if issues arise.
- Evaporative Cooler: An alternative to traditional air conditioning that cools air by evaporating water, commonly used in dry climates.
- HAVC Preventive Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance tasks performed on HVAC systems to ensure they operate efficiently and avoid breakdowns.
- Heat Recovery System: A system that captures and reuses waste heat from various HVAC processes, improving energy efficiency.
- Condensate Pump: A device that helps remove condensed water from HVAC equipment when gravity drainage is not possible.
- Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV): A ventilation system that exchanges heat between incoming and outgoing air streams to improve energy efficiency.
- BTUH (British Thermal Units per Hour): A measurement of heating or cooling capacity per hour, often used to size HVAC systems.
- Inverter Technology: A technology used in some air conditioners and heat pumps that allows for variable-speed operation, improving energy efficiency and comfort.
- Load Profile: A detailed analysis of a building’s heating and cooling requirements, taking into account factors like occupancy, insulation, and climate.
- Eutectic Freeze Protection: A system feature that prevents freezing of heat pump coils by temporarily running the compressor at low speed.
- Load Distribution: The process of evenly distributing conditioned air to various areas within a building, ensuring uniform comfort.
- HVAC Duct Design: The planning and layout of ductwork to optimize airflow and minimize pressure drops.
- Dual-Fuel System: A system that combines a heat pump and a backup heating source (e.g., gas furnace) to maximize efficiency depending on outdoor conditions.
- Ductless HVAC: Systems that provide heating and cooling without traditional ductwork, using individual indoor air-handling units.
- Pressure Drop: The decrease in air pressure as it flows through ductwork or HVAC components, which can affect system efficiency.
- ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor): A type of motor used in HVAC systems that adjusts its speed to optimize energy consumption.
- Building Automation System (BAS): A centralized control system that manages and monitors various building systems, including HVAC, lighting, and security.
- Green HVAC: The design and operation of HVAC systems with a focus on energy efficiency, sustainability, and reduced environmental impact.
- Ventilation Rate: The amount of fresh outdoor air introduced into a building, typically measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) per person.
- Boiler: A heating system that uses water or steam to distribute heat throughout a building, commonly used for radiant floor heating and hot water heating.
- Chiller: A machine used in large-scale HVAC systems to provide chilled water for cooling purposes, often used in commercial and industrial applications.
- Coefficient of Performance (COP): A measure of the efficiency of a heat pump, indicating how much heating or cooling output is generated per unit of input energy.
- Flue Pipe: A pipe that directs combustion gases from a furnace or boiler to the outdoors to ensure safe ventilation.
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- Evaporator Fan: The fan that circulates air over the evaporator coil to facilitate heat exchange in air conditioning and heat pump systems.
- Manual J Calculation: A calculation method used to determine the heating and cooling load requirements for a building, taking into account factors like insulation, windows, and occupancy.
- HVAC Grilles and Registers: Components used to cover air duct openings and control the direction of conditioned air in a room.
- Air Change Rate (ACH): The number of times the entire volume of air in a space is replaced with fresh outdoor air in an hour, important for indoor air quality.
- Air-to-Air Heat Exchanger: A device that transfers heat between the outgoing and incoming airstreams in a ventilation system to recover energy and improve efficiency.
- Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV): A type of ventilation system that transfers both heat and moisture between incoming and outgoing air streams to optimize indoor comfort and efficiency.
- AHRI (Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute): A trade organization that sets industry standards and certifies the performance of HVAC equipment.
- Economizer Cycle: A feature in commercial HVAC systems that uses outdoor air for cooling when conditions are favorable, reducing the need for mechanical cooling.
- Hot Water Radiator: A heating device that uses hot water circulated through a system of pipes and radiators to heat a room.
- Chilled Beam: A type of HVAC system that uses cooled water to remove heat from a space, often used in commercial buildings.
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): A green building certification program that promotes energy efficiency and sustainable practices in building design and operation, including HVAC systems.
- Blower Motor: The motor that powers the fan in an HVAC system, responsible for circulating air through the system and into living spaces.
- Scroll Compressor: A type of compressor commonly used in air conditioning and heat pump systems due to its reliability and efficiency.
- Pressure Relief Valve: A safety device that automatically releases excess pressure in a heating or cooling system to prevent damage.
- Combustion Chamber: The area within a furnace or boiler where fuel is burned to generate heat.
- Emissivity: A measure of how effectively a material emits radiant energy, important for determining the effectiveness of radiant heating systems.
- Ice Storage Air Conditioning: A cooling system that uses ice as a thermal storage medium to provide cooling during peak demand periods.
- Thermal Zone: A defined area within a building with similar heating and cooling requirements, often used for HVAC system design and control.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) System: A HVAC system that uses refrigerant to provide heating and cooling with variable capacity and zone control.
- Psychrometrics: The study of air properties, such as temperature, humidity, and enthalpy, to understand and control indoor air conditions.
- Water-Source Heat Pump: A heat pump that uses a water loop or a body of water as a heat exchange medium to provide heating and cooling.
- Refrigerant Recovery: The process of safely removing and recycling refrigerant from HVAC systems to comply with environmental regulations.
- Hydronic Balancing: Adjusting the flow of water in a hydronic heating system to ensure uniform heat distribution.
- Heat Sink: A component that absorbs and dissipates excess heat, often used in electronic or refrigeration systems.
- Load Shedding: A strategy used to reduce electrical demand during peak periods by temporarily adjusting HVAC settings.
- Green Building Council (USGBC): An organization that developed the LEED certification system and promotes sustainable building practices.
- Entropy: A measure of the amount of disorder or randomness in a system, relevant in the study of thermodynamics.
- Zone Control System: A system that divides a building into multiple zones, each with its own thermostat and control, for personalized temperature regulation.
- Bypass Damper: A damper used in zoning systems to redirect excess air back to the return duct, maintaining system balance.
- Carbon Monoxide Detector: A safety device that monitors indoor air for the presence of deadly carbon monoxide gas, often integrated with HVAC systems.
- Combustion Air Intake: A duct or vent that supplies fresh air to the combustion chamber of a heating appliance to support safe combustion.
- Desiccant Dehumidifier: A type of dehumidification system that uses a desiccant material to remove moisture from the air.
- Hygroscopic: Materials that can absorb and retain moisture from the surrounding environment, relevant in HVAC design and building materials.
- IAQ Testing: The process of assessing indoor air quality through various measurements and analyses to identify potential pollutants and contaminants.
- Manifold Gauge Set: A tool used by HVAC technicians to measure pressure and temperature in refrigeration systems.
- NATE Certification: North American Technician Excellence certification for HVAC technicians, indicating expertise and competence in the field.
- Refrigeration Cycle: The continuous process in which refrigerant circulates through an HVAC system, changing from a liquid to a gas and back to a liquid to facilitate cooling.
- Static Pressure Regulator: A device used to maintain consistent airflow in duct systems by regulating static pressure.
- Thermal Comfort: The state of mind that expresses satisfaction with the surrounding environment’s temperature, humidity, and air quality.
- Ventilation Rate: The rate at which outdoor air is introduced into an indoor space, usually measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
- Weatherization: The process of sealing and insulating a building to improve energy efficiency and reduce heat loss or gain.
- Load Factor: A measure of how efficiently a building’s HVAC system operates concerning its maximum capacity.
- Refrigerant Recovery: The safe and proper removal of refrigerant from HVAC equipment for recycling or disposal.
- Split System: An HVAC system divided into two main components, typically an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, connected by refrigerant lines.
- Radiant Barrier: A reflective material used in attics to reduce heat gain by reflecting radiant heat.
- Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV): A component in refrigeration systems that regulates the flow of refrigerant, controlling the evaporator’s superheat.
- Vibration Isolator: A device used to reduce noise and vibration in HVAC equipment by isolating it from the building structure.
- Variable Frequency Drive (VFD): A device that controls the speed and power output of motors in HVAC systems to optimize energy efficiency.
- Duct Insulation: Material applied to the exterior of ductwork to prevent heat gain or loss and maintain temperature control.
- AHU (Air Handling Unit): A component in HVAC systems that conditions and circulates air within a building.
- Combustion Efficiency: A measure of how effectively a heating appliance burns fuel to produce heat.
- Infrared Heater: A heating system that uses electromagnetic radiation to heat objects and surfaces in a space.
- Return Air Plenum: A space within a building where return air is collected before being recirculated through the HVAC system.
- Saturated Air: Air that contains the maximum amount of moisture it can hold at a specific temperature and pressure.
- Flash Gas: Refrigerant vapor formed when high-pressure liquid refrigerant rapidly expands, often in evaporator coils.
- Glycol Heating System: A system that uses a mixture of water and antifreeze (glycol) to transfer heat, commonly used in hydronic heating.
- Psychrometric Chart: A graphical representation of air properties, helping HVAC professionals analyze and design systems.
- Snow Melt System: A system that uses heated water or glycol to melt snow and ice on driveways, walkways, or roofs.
- Zonal Control: A method of controlling temperature and airflow in different zones or rooms independently within a building.
- Cascade System: A refrigeration system that uses multiple refrigerants at different temperature levels to achieve lower temperatures.
- Fire Damper: A device installed in ductwork to prevent the spread of fire and smoke within a building.
- Plenum Chamber: An enclosed space within an HVAC system where air pressure is equalized before distribution.
- Refrigeration Oil: Oil used in refrigeration systems to lubricate moving parts and improve heat transfer.
- Subcooling: The process of lowering the temperature of refrigerant below its saturation point to improve system efficiency.
- Coils: Heat exchanger components in HVAC systems, including evaporator coils for cooling and condenser coils for heating.
- Static Regain: A design principle in ductwork that aims to regain lost static pressure as air flows through the system.
- Emissivity: A measure of how efficiently a material emits radiant heat energy, crucial in radiant heating system design.
- Steam Boiler: A heating system that uses steam as a heat transfer medium, often found in older buildings and industrial applications.
- Evaporative Condenser: A component of some refrigeration systems that uses water evaporation to dissipate heat from the condenser coil.
- Air Changes per Hour (ACH): A measurement of how many times the air within a space is replaced with fresh air in an hour, important for indoor air quality.
- Smoke Detector: A safety device that detects the presence of smoke and can trigger ventilation systems in case of fire.
- Heat Recovery Wheel: A rotating heat exchanger that transfers heat and moisture between exhaust and supply air streams in ventilation systems.
- Heat Load Calculation: The process of determining the amount of heat energy a building requires for heating or cooling.
- Radiator Valve: A valve used to control the flow of hot water or steam through radiators in a hydronic heating system.
- Soffit Vent: An intake vent located in the soffit area of a building that allows fresh outdoor air to enter the attic space for ventilation.
- Stack Effect: The movement of air in a building due to differences in indoor and outdoor temperatures and pressures, affecting ventilation.
- Thermal Expansion: The natural expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature changes, which must be considered in HVAC system design.
- UV Air Purification: A method of disinfecting and purifying indoor air using ultraviolet (UV) light to kill airborne pathogens and bacteria.
- Dry Bulb Temperature: The actual air temperature measured without accounting for humidity, a fundamental parameter in psychrometrics.
- Split-Ductless System: A type of HVAC system that includes an outdoor unit and multiple indoor air-handling units, often used for zoned heating and cooling.
- Boiler Efficiency: A measure of how effectively a boiler converts fuel into usable heat energy, often expressed as a percentage.
- Chill Water System: A system that uses chilled water as a heat transfer medium for cooling, commonly found in large commercial buildings.
- Energy Audit: An assessment of a building’s energy usage and efficiency to identify areas for improvement and energy savings.
- Modulating Valve: A valve that can vary the flow of a fluid, often used in hydronic heating systems for precise temperature control.
- Forced Air Heating: A heating system that uses a blower to distribute heated air through ducts and vents to heat living spaces.
- BIM (Building Information Modeling): A digital representation of a building’s physical and functional characteristics, useful in HVAC system design and planning.
- Ductless Split System: Another term for a ductless mini-split system, which provides heating and cooling without ductwork.
- Sensible Heat: The heat energy that changes the temperature of air or a substance without changing its phase (liquid to gas or vice versa).
- Expansion Tank: A component in hydronic heating systems that absorbs excess pressure and prevents water from boiling or bursting pipes.
- Permeability: A material’s ability to allow the passage of water vapor or air, relevant in building envelope and insulation design.
- Refrigeration Oil Separator: A component used in refrigeration systems to separate oil from refrigerant for proper system lubrication.
- Static Pressure Sensor: A device that measures the static pressure in ductwork to monitor and control airflow.