When you’re having someone work on your heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) unit, it can seem like they’re speaking a different language. New terms, acronyms or concepts that you’re not familiar with can leave you more confused than when you started having your system replaced or repaired. Here are some common terms used in the HVAC industry that will help you understand what’s happening with your unit as well as be able to effectively communicate with your trained professionals.
HVAC terminology glossary
Air Handler: The air handler is the indoor portion of your central air conditioning unit. It moves the conditioned air through your home.
BTU: A British thermal unit (BTU) is a measurement of how much energy it takes to heat one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. It’s used to describe the heating capacity of fuel or your system, or in cooling, as a measurement of how much heat is removed from your home.
Compressor: Basic refrigeration theory involves cooling as a fluid is turned to a gas and then back again. The compressor creates the pressure to convert the substance from one state to the other and is a vital part of your air conditioning system.
Cycling: Cycling refers to a system turning on and off, such as when your system starts and stops cooling.
Ducts: Ducts are the pipes that move air through your home.
High-Efficiency Particulate Absorbing Filter (HEPA): A HEPA filter removes very fine material and allergens from the air.
HVAC: Stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
Indoor Coil: This is the inside heat exchanging portion of your air conditioner that cools the air in your air handler.
Matched System: Also called a balanced system, this refers to the components of the system being balanced in performance.
Outdoor Coil: This is the outside heat exchanging portion of your air conditioner or heat pump.
Outdoor Unit: This is the entire outside portion of your system.
Refrigerant: The substance that is turned from gas to liquid and back again to provide cooling.
SEER: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio is a rating for a unit’s energy efficiency. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit.
Thermostat: The mechanical or digital control to your system. It’s the interior part that you adjust to control your home’s temperature.
Now that you’re familiar with some HVAC terms, it’ll be easier to troubleshoot your system. If you need help with this process, please contact us! We’re always ready to help with your HVAC needs.
