The truth is when you turn on your heat or air conditioning you want it to work. You expect when you adjust the temperature it will do its thing and you will be comfortably kept warm or cool. That might be the extent of your knowledge as it relates to heating and cooling.
Maybe you’ve heard the term HVAC before and know it relates to your heating and cooling but never understood exactly what it means.
Read on to understand what an HVAC system is and how it works to keep your house the temperature you want.
What is HVAC?
HVAC is an abbreviation that stands for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning. It is the mechanical system in your home that controls temperature, hot or cold.
Your HVAC system not only controls how warm or cool your room is, but it also controls humidity. It is the system in place that moves and distributes air through your rooms.
In addition to the more obvious heating and cooling, ventilation is an important part of your HVAC system. Your home gets some natural ventilation when you open doors and windows. The “V” in HVAC is the mechanical part of ventilation happening in your home. It helps to bring air into your home and circulate it around.
This part of your system will include air filters and purifiers to help in keeping the air moving in your home clean.
Types of HVAC Systems
When understanding heating and cooling, you need to know about the different types of HVAC. There are a variety of options in HVAC, each with advantages for different climates and needs.
- Single-stage heating and cooling systems are often found in climates where it is warm or cold much of the time. They work well at pumping out either the heat or cool air to combat the climate conditions. It means, though, the system runs at full tilt when it is on.
- A multi-stage system allows users to have the unit run with variable speeds, instead of all the way on or off.
- In modern HVAC systems, you can get zoned heating and cooling. This allows for parts of your home, or zones, to have temperature control while having other zones off.
Factors to Consider for A New HVAC System
If you are considering investing in a new HVAC system for your home, it’s time to do your homework. Here are some things to know and then research:
- Know your current system
- Identify problem areas with your current system
- Know your square footage so you can get the right size system for your home
- Consider your local climate so you can better understand the demands on the unit
- Research new models
- Consider energy efficiency
- Look into warranties
As you narrow down the best brand and type of HVAC unit for you, you might also consider air quality components. This would include things like air quality purifiers and humidifiers.
When choosing a system, you also want to do your homework on HVAC contractors.
Understanding HVAC Systems In Your Home
Understanding your HVAC system is important as a homeowner. If you have HVAC questions, we can help.
With 40 years of experience taking care of the Houston area, we can deliver for all of your heating and cooling needs including 24/7 emergency services. Contact us today for a consultation about your HVAC system.
