Introduction to HVAC Systems
What does HVAC stand for?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It refers to the systems used in buildings to regulate temperature, humidity, and air quality for comfort and safety.
Typical HVAC Systems in a Home
Here are the typical elements of an HVAC system found in a house.
Furnace: Also commonly called a heater, the furnace is responsible for heating the air in the home during colder months. It may use gas, oil, or electricity as a fuel source.
Air Conditioner: The air conditioner, or AC, is used to cool the air in the home during hot weather. It works by transferring heat from inside the home to the outside. Window units, swamp coolers, and mini splits can also be used to cool home temps.
Thermostat: The thermostat is the control center for the HVAC system. Whether or not you have a smart thermostat like Nest, a thermostat is how homeowners or renters set the desired temperature and control the operation of the heating and cooling systems.
Ductwork: Ductwork is like the veins of the HVAC ‘circulatory system.’ HVAC ducts distribute heated or cooled air throughout the home. A ductwork system consists of a network of pipes or channels that deliver air to different rooms.
Vents and Registers: Vents and registers are openings in the walls, floors, or ceilings where air is delivered into the rooms of the home. Some vents are returns, which air intake vents.
Air Filters: HVAC Air filters are used to remove dust, pollen, and other particles from the air before it is circulated throughout the home. Often the first DIY (easiest and most economical) step in troubleshooting an HVAC system, furnace filters are a common HVAC maintenance item, help improve indoor air quality, and protect the HVAC system from damage.
Heat Pump: Some homes may use a heat pump instead of a separate furnace and air conditioner. A heat pump can both heat and cool the air by transferring heat between the indoor and outdoor environments.
Condensate Pump: Often used in high efficiency HVAC systems, a condensate pump removes condensation that forms as a natural byproduct of the cooling or heating process.
HVAC in Condos and Apartments
The specific HVAC system installed in a condo depends on various factors such as building design, local climate, energy efficiency requirements, and the preferences of the condominium association and individual unit owners. Typical HVAC systems in a condo or apartment include:
Central Heating and Cooling Systems: Many condos have centralized HVAC systems that provide both heating and cooling to individual units. These systems are often managed by the condominium association and are shared among all the units in the building. Typical HVAC systems in a condo or apartment include:
Forced Air Systems: Forced air systems are common in condos, especially in newer constructions. They use ductwork to distribute heated or cooled air throughout the living space.
Heat Pumps: Heat pumps are becoming more popular in condominiums due to their energy efficiency. They can provide both heating and cooling by transferring heat between the indoor and outdoor environments.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems: In some condos, especially in older buildings or in units with limited space, ductless mini-split systems may be installed. These systems consist of an outdoor compressor unit connected to one or more indoor air-handling units. They are versatile and allow for individualized temperature control in different areas of the condo.
Thermostats: Each condo unit typically has its own thermostat to control the temperature settings independently from other units.
Ventilation Systems: Ventilation systems ensure proper airflow and indoor air quality by removing stale air and introducing fresh air into the living space. These systems may include exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, as well as air exchangers.
Condensate Drainage Systems: Condos with central air conditioning or high-efficiency furnaces may also have condensate pumps to remove water generated during the cooling or heating process.
Common HVAC Problems
…and how to fix them
HVAC systems run smoothly and we don’t think about them until they stop working, and then it’s too hot or too cold and we (or our tenants) are uncomfortable and want it fixed ASAP. However, HVAC contractors can be pricey, and in extremely cold or hot temperatures, there can be a long wait for an HVAC technician because several other systems in the area are failing at the same time.