HVAC Terms You Need to Know

Heating & Cooling Glossary

As a homeowner, it is beneficial to have a general understanding of your heating and cooling system and the terms that are commonly used by professionals. Once know what they mean, you will be able to communicate easier with your AC and heating repair technician, compare your unit to others and find the best upgrade. Here is a list of the most common HVAC terms so you can familiarize yourself with them.

Air Handler

The air handler is the indoor component of an air conditioner or heat pump. It is responsible for filtration, cooling the air and pushing heated or cooled air throughout your air ducts.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a poisonous gas that is produced when natural gas is burned without enough air. It can significantly harm your family and is particularly dangerous because carbon monoxide is tasteless, odorless, and colorless. However, if you have your HVAC system routinely checked and maintained, your unit will not produce this dangerous gas.

Compressor

The compressor is a vital part of the outside air conditioner or heat pump. It is responsible for compressing the refrigerant until the surrounding air reaches the desired temperature.

Cubic Feet Per Minute (CFM)

Cubic feet per minute, or CFM, is a standard measurement of airflow volume. It describes the amount of air that passes by a specific point within one minute. An accurate measurement will help you choose the HVAC system that will best suit the size and cooling needs of your house.

Dehumidifier

This device removes excess moisture from the air by cooling the air to the point that water vapor turns to liquid, which is then taken out of the air.

Energy Star

Energy Star is a government supported branding created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Any product that bears the Energy Star label has met strict standards for energy efficiency.

Evaporator & Condenser Coils

Your central air system has two coils, which are the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. The evaporator cools the air and removes moisture by turning the liquid refrigerant into a gas. The remaining refrigerant is now hot and sent to the condenser coil, which will release this heat through the air, ground or water located outside your home.

Flue

An opening that allows exhaust gases, which are produced during combustion, to be released outdoors. It is typically used in association with modern furnaces.

Heat Exchanger

A heat exchanger is positioned within the furnace and transfers heat from burning fuel to the surrounding air. This air will then be used to warm your house.

Heat Pump

A heat pump is a system that is able to heat or cool a space depending on the season. In the winter, it removes air from outside, heats it using refrigerant and then circulates it within your home. The process is then reversed in the summer when it removes heat from your house and releases it outside.

Refrigerant

A refrigerant is a chemical with a very low boiling point, which allows it to absorb or release heat. It is used in heat pumps and air conditioners to move heat into or out of your house. The most common type of refrigerant is R-22, also known as Freon. However, Freon has been linked to the depletion of our ozone so the EPA has since prohibited its use. Now, R-410A is used instead and it is not considered harmful to the environment.

SEER

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, is a ratio that was created by the federal government. It measures the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. The higher your efficiency, the more energy efficient it is and the lower your energy costs. To find out more about how this number is calculated, look at our EER definition.

AC & Heating Repair Companies in Gainesville, FL

Regardless of your heating and cooling needs, LIBERTYAIR is here to help. Whether you are already familiar with these terms or not, we will walk you through each step of the process so you are able to make an informed decision. If you need a repair, replacement or need maintenance for your HVAC system, call LIBERTYAIR today!