Learning a Few Basic Terms Can Go a Long Way!
While your chosen technician knows their way around an HVAC system, asking questions and giving them as much information as possible about your unique unit can be very helpful. If you are curious about a particular process or want to ensure that your system is functioning efficiently after a service, it may be beneficial to memorize a few vocabulary words so you can concisely communicate with your technician!
Check out our glossary of HVAC terms that would be useful to know.
- AFUE: Means “Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency,” or how effectively a heating system converts fuel into usable heat. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the boiler or furnace.
- Air Filters: Collect airborne particles and keep them from entering your furnace and circulating around your home. They are commonly located on the return side of the furnace.
- Boiler: A boiler changes fuel into usable hot water.
- Coil: Evaporator coils are located in the inside unit of ACs and heat pumps; condenser coils are located in the outside unit. These coils remove heat from your home’s air as part of the refrigeration cycle used in both heating and cooling.
- Dampers: Located within your ducts, dampers help direct air throughout your system and into your home.
- Ducts: Your ductwork is responsible for delivering and carrying conditioned air throughout your home and should be completely sealed to avoid costly air leaks.
- Furnace: Your furnace is responsible for converting fuel into usable, warm air.
- Heat Exchanger: Your heat exchanger is comprised of a series of tubes that, when warmed by burners within your furnace, heat the air that circulates throughout your home.
- Heat Pump: A home comfort system that provides both heating and cooling.
- IAQ: IAQ stands for “indoor air quality”. You can maintain a high IAQ by maintaining proper ventilation, routine cleaning and several other methods.
- Programmable Thermostat: Programmable thermostats allow you to remotely control the temperature in your home is no matter where you are and can adjust the temperature in accordance with your unique schedule.
- Refrigerant: A heat-carrying liquid that transitions between the evaporator and condenser coils within your air conditioner or heat pump.
- SEER: Stands for “Seasonal Energy-Efficiency Ratio.” A SEER score measures how efficient your home comfort system is. The higher it is, the better!
- Zoned System: If some parts of your home are warmer or cooler than others, a zoned system might be for you! This system customizes your comfort by heating or cooings specific sections—or zones—of your home. Each section is a unique unit, and is controlled by individual thermostats.
By learning a few common HVAC terms, you can more accurately communicate to your technician exactly what you’re looking for! If you have any questions or would like to schedule service, give Hydes a call at (760) 360-2202. We have served Coachella Valley homeowners’ comfort needs since 1972 and are more than happy to put our experience to work for you!
