Whether you’re looking to upgrade, maintain or repair your HVAC system, it’s a smart idea to understand how it all works.
In this article, we outline the different types of systems, their parts and how they work together to make your home more comfortable.
What is an HVAC System?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. Essentially, your home’s HVAC system is a collection of appliances that control your home’s indoor “climate” by adjusting temperature, humidity, air purity and airflow.
Home HVAC System Parts
Since an HVAC system is a home heating and cooling system, it will always include appliances that warm and cool your indoor space. These appliances commonly include combustion furnaces, air conditioner units, air purifiers, humidifiers and blower fans.
Alternative heating and cooling appliances include heat pumps, boilers and radiators. However, these appliances are not typically connected as an HVAC system.
Let our experienced technicians at D&B ClimateCare help you achieve the home comfort that you deserve. Contact us today!
Types of HVAC Systems
Although most HVAC systems function according to the same principles, different designs are available based on various building needs. Here are the most common types of home HVAC systems:
- Traditional Split System: This system is split into two main parts for heating and cooling: a combustion furnace and an external AC unit.
- Hybrid Split System: This system allows you to switch between different fuel sources. That is, you can use electricity to heat and cool your home when it is more energy efficient and have your combustion furnace kick in when temperatures drop.
- Mini-Split (Ductless) System: This system does not include ductwork and instead has HVAC appliances mounted in strategic areas of the home to heat, cool and ventilate the space.
How Does an HVAC System Work
HVAC system components can be powered by different energy sources, including natural gas, electricity and geothermal energy. Most furnaces use hydrocarbon fuels to heat air via combustion. AC systems use electricity, fuel, and refrigerant chemicals to chill the indoor air.
An HVAC system will rely on either natural or mechanical ventilation to ventilate a home. Both systems include a fresh air intake vent and exhaust ventilation for furnace fumes. If your home uses natural ventilation, air will flow in and out of the house by following natural air movement patterns. If you have a mechanical ventilation system in place, air will be forced through ducts and vents by blower fans.
Regular HVAC Maintenance
As you now know, your HVAC system is made of many parts, some of which are more prone to wear and tear. As a result, you must stay up to date on regular HVAC system maintenance to get the most out of your home comfort appliances.
Service or Update Your HVAC Unit With Us
If you’re looking to have HVAC servicing, installation or repairs done by experts, then give D&B ClimateCare a call. Our experienced technicians will be happy to help you achieve the level of home comfort you deserve.
