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50 Essential HVAC Terminologies and Their Meanings

Writer's picture: Bhargava Krishna MarripatiBhargava Krishna Marripati


Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and comfort. Whether you are a professional in the field or a homeowner looking to understand more about your system, knowing essential HVAC terms can be beneficial.

Diagram of HVAC terminologies, definations & components with airflow and information flow paths. Includes logic controller, dampers, coils, and a labeled section on terminology.

Here’s a comprehensive list of 50 key HVAC terms and their meanings:


1. Air Handler - A unit that circulates and regulates air as part of an HVAC system.


2. BTU (British Thermal Unit) - A measurement of heat energy; one BTU is the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.


3. CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) - A measurement of airflow volume; indicates the amount of air moved by a system per minute.


4. Compressor - The component in an HVAC system that pressurizes refrigerant to cool or heat a space.


5. Condenser Coil - A heat exchanger that releases heat from refrigerant into the outside air.


6. Ductwork - A network of tubes that distribute air throughout a building.


7. Evaporator Coil - A coil in an air handler that absorbs heat from indoor air.


8. Refrigerant - A chemical compound that absorbs and releases heat to provide cooling and heating.


9. Thermostat - A device that regulates temperature by controlling HVAC systems.


10. SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) - A rating that measures the efficiency of an air conditioning unit.


11. AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) - A measure of furnace efficiency expressed as a percentage.


12. Heat Pump - A device that transfers heat between indoor and outdoor environments for heating or cooling.


13. HVAC Load Calculation - The process of determining the heating and cooling needs of a space.


14. Dehumidifier - A device that removes excess moisture from the air.


15. Humidifier - A device that adds moisture to the air.


16. VAV (Variable Air Volume) - A type of HVAC system that controls airflow based on demand.


17. Zoning System - A system that divides a building into different climate-controlled areas.


18. Air Filter - A component that removes dust and contaminants from the air.


19. Heat Exchanger - A device that transfers heat from one medium to another.


20. ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) - A system that exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering heat and humidity.


21. HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) - Similar to an ERV but focuses on heat exchange without humidity control.


22. Dampers - Adjustable plates that regulate airflow in ducts.


23. Static Pressure - The resistance to airflow in an HVAC system.


24. Blower Motor - A motor that drives the fan in an HVAC system.



25. Capacitor - A device that stores electrical energy to help start HVAC motors.


26. Expansion Valve - A valve that regulates refrigerant flow into the evaporator coil.


27. Condensate Drain - A drainage system that removes excess moisture collected by an HVAC system.


28. Split System - A type of HVAC system with separate indoor and outdoor units.


29. Packaged System - An all-in-one HVAC unit containing heating and cooling components.


30. Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV) - A device that controls refrigerant flow to improve efficiency.


31. HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) - A measure of heat pump efficiency.


32. MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) - A rating system for air filter efficiency.


33. Ductless Mini-Split - A heating and cooling system that does not require ductwork.


34. Radiant Heating - A heating method that transfers heat directly from surfaces to people and objects.


35. Scroll Compressor - A type of compressor known for high efficiency and reliability.


36. Plenum - A chamber in an HVAC system that distributes or collects air.


37. Return Air - Air that is drawn back into an HVAC system for reconditioning.


38. Supply Air - Conditioned air that is delivered to a space.


39. Economizer - A device that uses outside air for cooling when conditions allow.


40. Cycling Rate - The frequency with which an HVAC system turns on and off.


41. Setpoint - The desired temperature setting on a thermostat.


42. Air Balancing - Adjusting an HVAC system for even air distribution.


43. Insulation - Material that reduces heat loss or gain in HVAC systems.


44. Latent Heat - The energy absorbed or released during phase changes, such as condensation or evaporation.


45. Sensible Heat - Heat that changes temperature but not state.


46. Chiller - A machine that removes heat from liquid for cooling applications.


47. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) - A system that adjusts refrigerant flow to match demand.


48. Two-Stage Compressor - A compressor that operates at two levels for efficiency.


49. Load Shedding - The process of reducing energy consumption during peak demand.


50. Air Changes Per Hour (ACH) - The number of times air in a space is replaced within an hour.




Conclusion

Understanding HVAC terminology is essential for anyone involved in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. These 50 terms provide a foundation for better communication and decision-making in the field. Whether you are maintaining, repairing, or installing an HVAC system, knowing these terms will enhance your knowledge and efficiency.

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