Definition: HVAC means heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC refers to various systems used to move air between indoor and outdoor areas, both for heating and cooling of residential as well as commercial buildings. These are the systems that keep you warm and cozy in winter and give you a feeling of coolness and cleanliness in summer. They are also systems that filter and purify indoor air to maintain health and maintain humidity levels for optimal comfort.
Each component in your home can be separate, for example, a transition system with window air conditioners. However, this is more common for combined systems such as HVAC basics.
First, there is the source of fresh air intake from outside or inside the house. This process is called ventilation and it happens in two different ways. Natural ventilation is present in most homes and refers to the normal movement of air through windows, doors, ventilation and other means. This exchange of air is essential for replenishing oxygen and removing odors, carbon dioxide, and excess moisture.
Mechanical ventilation uses a mechanical system to move air in and out. In the past, most homes had plenty of natural ventilation from construction flaws and cracks, with doors opening and closing. However, modern construction creates homes that are much tighter sealed, so ventilation is becoming an increasingly important component in home HVAC systems. Once the air enters, it is fed into the air permeable compartment where the work begins. Here the air is purified by filters to remove dust, allergens and other particles.
Next, is comfort. The air is sent to heat or cool and to remove excess moisture. Once the air is cleaned, refreshed and set to a comfortable temperature, it is directed home. For central systems this means moving through a network of pipes and registers to different rooms. For other systems this usually means addressing space directly. Namely, NG and AC systems that use a single air chamber through the internal ducts of the house to circulate air, or with a drainage system for different rooms and zones of the house.
Now that you know what HVAC means and what the HVAC system is, you can better understand the heating, cooling and comfort needs of your home. Contact KS Group for more information or assistance with your system. We are your trusted HVAC and home service provider for all your home comfort needs.