Understanding Common HVAC Terminology

If you are interested in the way your HVAC system works, you will want to understand everything about it, from installation to maintenance to ac repair. You may also want to become familiar with HVAC terminology. The knowledge will not place you in the same league as technicians, but it will take you a step above the average homeowner. Here are common HVAC terminologies to understand:

Air Handler

• This is a term used to describe the indoor portion of your air cooling system. It can be used to refer to the indoor portion of an air conditioner, evaporative air cooler, or heat pump.

Airflow Volume

• This term defines the measure of how much air is circulated in an enclosed space. It is important in determining the size of the air cooling unit to buy. It can also influence your indoor air quality. Larger rooms normally need higher airflow volume.

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)

• This is a term that is applicable to heating. It is more like a rating that defines how efficient a gas furnace is at converting natural gas to heat. The higher the rating, the lower your heating cost.

Condensate Line

• The condensate line is the line that drains the condensed water from your central air conditioning system or heat pump. It needs to be free to avoid water backup and major damage to the cooling system.

Energy Star

• Energy Star is a rating or certification program that indicates that a device is energy efficient. Systems with Energy Star ratings generally use at least 30% less electricity or fuel to perform the same task as other systems without the certificate.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

• As the name implies, this is a measure of the cleanliness of the air in any indoor environment. There are several particles that can pollute your indoor air, and most of them can cause discomfort and diseases. Improving IAQ is essential.

Minimum Efficiency Reported Value (MERV)

• Air conditioners, heating, and ventilation systems are rated according to MERV, which indicates the size of particles they can capture. MERV ratings range from 1 – 20. The higher the MERV rating, the better for your indoor air quality.

We hope you now understand some common HVAC terminology. Call Waychoff’s Air Conditioning today for your professional heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and indoor air quality needs. We deliver quality and exceptional services.