An HVAC Glossary of Common Heating and Cooling Terms

Common HVAC Industry Terms

Hopefully, you have an HVAC contractor inspect your HVAC system periodically. It's nice to know what they're talking about when they explain what they did or need to do to your unit. The following definitions are common heating and cooling terms you might hear the next time you have your HVAC unit serviced.



Common HVAC Cooling Terms

If your HVAC system requires cooling services, these are some of the terms your HVAC contractor might use.

Refrigerant

Also known as coolant, refrigerant is a liquid found in HVAC systems that helps remove heat from the air. If the coolant in your system gets low, it cannot remove heat from the air (or cool your home) as efficiently.

Freon

Freon is an organic compound used for air conditioner coolant. The name is a registered trademark of DuPont, but 'coolant' and 'freon' are often interchanged.

Air Handler

The indoor section of your HVAC system is the air handler that pushes the cold air throughout your home.

Condenser Coils

Coolant runs through the condenser coils to remove the heat from the air passing through from the outside. If the condenser coil is not regularly cleaned and serviced, it can freeze up. A clogged air filter can also cause condenser coils to freeze up.

Compressor

The compressor is the part of an outdoor unit that compresses and pumps the refrigerant.

Charging a System

When an HVAC contractor adds refrigerant to your HVAC system, it is called charging the system.

Evaporator Drain

This tube is attached to the AC unit. It allows the system's condensation to drain. When the evaporator drain gets dirty, it can get clogged entirely. The drain should be checked and cleaned periodically. This is another part of your AC system that can cause the condenser coils to freeze if the system cannot drain.

A Few Filter Terms to Know

You probably change the AC filter yourself, but you might not know these filter terms. They may help you buy better filters the next time you need new ones.

HEPA

This is a type of air conditioner air filter for an AC unit. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestance.

MERV Rating

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. A MERV rating is based on a filter's ability to capture dust and dirt particles. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the holes in the filter and the less dust that will pass through the filter into your HVAC system and home.

Common Heating Terms

When your system requires heating services, you might hear some of the following terms.

Combustion Chamber

The combustion chamber is the part of your furnace that does the heating. Chemical reactions take place in the chamber to create heat.

Heat Exchanger

A heat exchanger is the part of your furnace that transfers the heat into the air. It separates the breathable air from the combustible air and then pushes the breathable air throughout your home.

Flue

The flue is a duct or duct-like structure that captures smoke and gases created by your heater. The gases are then pushed outside through the flue. Flue is another term for chimney.

Heat Pump

The heat pump is outside. It pulls in air from outside to heat it and then moves it through your home.

General HVAC Terms

These terms apply to all types of HVAC systems.

Controller

A controller is simply another word for the thermostat. A programmable thermostat can help keep energy costs in check.

Ductwork

Ductwork is the specialized channels that allow airflow to and from your HVAC system and through your home. Ductwork should be checked periodically for leaks. Leaky ductwork makes your HVAC system work less efficiently.

R-Value

Installation is not part of your HVAC system, but proper insulation does help it work more efficiently and keeps energy costs lower. The higher the R-Value, the better the insulation.

What is an HVAC Contractor?

Don't overlook the most obvious term. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. It simply refers to the system used to move cool and warm air through your home. Of course, an HVAC contractor is a technician who maintains and repairs your HVAC to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills low.

If you can't remember when an HVAC contractor last checked your system, contact us today at (707) 228–9921 and make an appointment.