HVAC Terminology for Beginners
The HVAC industry is full of acronyms that can be confusing if you are not familiar with them. Understanding these terms is helpful when purchasing a new system, maintaining your current one, or simply communicating with HVAC professionals. We have provided a guide to some of the most common HVAC acronyms to help you navigate the world of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning with confidence.
AC - Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning is an HVAC system designed to cool the air and control humidity by circulating temperature-regulated air throughout a space.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process ⎸ Maintenance ⎸ Understanding System
Nearly every source of HVAC information, be it online or in person, will use this term to refer to an air conditioning system.
AFUE - Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency
AFUE measures the efficiency of combustion systems like furnaces and boilers.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
When comparing systems, look for higher AFUE percentages, which indicate better fuel-to-heat conversion efficiency.
AHU - Air Handling Unit
An AHU is the central unit responsible for circulating air throughout a building.
Most Typical Application: Maintenance ⎸ Understanding System
Knowing this term is crucial when discussing airflow issues or system maintenance.
BAS - Building Automation System
BAS is a smart technology system that monitors and adjusts indoor temperatures based on factors like occupancy and outdoor conditions.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process ⎸ Maintenance ⎸ Understanding System
While more common in commercial settings, BAS is increasingly relevant for smart homes.
BTU - British Thermal Unit
BTU measures an HVAC system's energy output. It calculates the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
Use BTU ratings to choose the right system capacity for your space.
COP - Coefficient of Performance
COP measures heating system efficiency, with higher values indicating better performance.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
Compare COP values when selecting a new system.
DCV - Demand-Controlled Ventilation
DCV adjusts ventilation based on occupancy and air quality.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
If excellent ventilation is a top priority, look for systems with DCV features.
DOE - Department of Energy
The DOE is the US government department responsible for developing and enforcing HVAC energy efficiency standards.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
The DOE is a reliable source for information on energy-efficient systems.
DPT - Dew Point Temperature
DPT is the temperature at which moisture in the air condenses into dew.
Most Typical Application: Maintenance ⎸ Understanding System
For humidity concerns, discuss DPT with your HVAC technician to assess dehumidification needs.
DX - Direct Expansion
DX systems improve efficiency by directly cooling air without secondary circuits.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
Look for DX when comparing systems to enhance efficiency.
EER - Energy Efficiency Ratio
EER is a ratio that measures an air conditioning system's cooling capacity and efficiency.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
High EER ratings indicate more efficient systems with greater longevity.
EPA - Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA enforces HVAC efficiency standards and provides guidance on eco-friendly systems.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
Use the EPA's resources to verify the efficiency of HVAC systems.
ERV - Energy Recovery Ventilator
An ERV utilizes outgoing air to condition incoming air, preventing energy loss during ventilation.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
An ERV can boost system efficiency.
EVAP - Evaporator Coil
Evaporator Coils are a key component that absorbs heat to cool or heat a space.
Most Typical Application: Maintenance ⎸ Understanding System
Regularly check your EVAP for dust and debris to maintain system performance.
GSHP - Ground Source Heat Pump
Also known as geothermal heat pumps, GSHPs use the earth’s temperature for climate control.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process ⎸ Understanding System
This is the go-to term when researching or discussing high-efficiency heat pumps.
HRV - Heat Recovery Ventilator
HRVs transfer heat from exhaust air to incoming fresh air, focusing on effective heat transfer.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
HRVs are ideal for maximizing winter efficiency.
HSPF - Heating Seasonal Performance Factor
HSPF measures heat pump efficiency, with higher values meaning more efficient systems.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
Seek high HSPF ratings when comparing heat pumps.
IAQ - Indoor Air Quality
IAQ refers to the level of pollutants, allergens, and humidity in the air and how well HVAC systems remove them to improve health and comfort.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process ⎸ Maintenance ⎸ Understanding System
IAQ is essential for discussions on improving health and comfort.
MERV - Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value
MERV measures air filter effectiveness in capturing particles like dust and pollen. Higher ratings capture smaller particles.
Most Typical Application: Maintenance
Choose a MERV rating that suits your needs; the highest rating might not be necessary and could potentially reduce efficiency. Knowing what filter to use is an important part of the maintenance process.
R-22 - Freon Refrigerant
Freon Refrigerant is a now-phased-out refrigerant for environmental reasons.
Most Typical Application: Understanding System
If you have an older system, this term is key when considering upgrades.
SEER - Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
SEER measures system efficiency across all HVAC systems, with higher ratings indicating better efficiency.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
SEER ratings help compare system efficiency before buying.
SMART THERMOSTAT - Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology Thermostat
SMART thermostats control your HVAC system from any device and often include programmable schedules and energy tracking.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process ⎸ Maintenance
Consider smart thermostats for enhanced control and efficiency.
VAV - Variable Air Volume
VAV technology adjusts airflow based on demand, improving comfort and efficiency.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
Opt for VAV systems for better control over indoor conditions.
VRF - Variable Refrigerant Flow
VRF systems adjust refrigerant flow to indoor units based on their settings, enhancing efficiency.
Most Typical Application: Purchasing Process
VRF systems are ideal if you have multiple indoor units and want to ensure the best efficiency.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
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