Have you ever wondered, “what is HVAC?” The term stands for “heating, ventilation and air conditioning.” Working together, these systems help to maintain a comfortable temperature within your Savannah, GA home, control the humidity level and improve your indoor air quality.
Heating Systems
Forced air systems are the most common, using a fuel like natural gas or oil to heat air and distribute it through your home using a blower fan and ductwork. Hydronic systems use natural gas, oil or propane to create steam or hot water that heats your home through radiators, baseboard heaters or radiant floor systems. Heat pumps use the refrigeration cycle in reverse during the winter to extract heat from the outdoor air or, in geothermal systems, from the ground.
Ventilation Systems
Many homes use natural ventilation. This includes open windows and roof vents in combination with exhaust systems like bathroom fans to circulate indoor air and draw in fresh air. Looking for better air quality and humidity control? Some homes include a specialized whole-house ventilation system. They may incorporate other indoor air quality products, such as air cleaners, humidifiers or dehumidifiers.
Air Conditioning Systems
Air conditioners and heat pumps use the refrigeration cycle to draw heat out of the indoor air during the summer. It then expels it outside. In the process, they also help to dehumidify the indoor air. Central air conditioners and most heat pumps have a large outdoor coil that’s connected by refrigerant lines to the indoor coil located in the air handler. Air is cooled by blowing over the indoor coil, and then distributed through the home using ducts.
Mini split systems have a condenser unit and a separate indoor air handler. They don’t use traditional ductwork. Window units are self-contained, including a compressor, condenser and evaporator in one unit.
Ready to learn more about what HVAC is? Want to learn more about Byrd Heating and Air Conditioning cooling solutions? Contact our experienced pros at 912-373-8447.
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