What is HVAC?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning. HVAC systems include central heating and air-conditioning with warm or cool air ducted to the classrooms or window, wall, and ceiling mounted air-conditioners and heat pumps. Ducted systems may have a loud rumble as the ducts transmit noise from the central fan and turbulence in the ducts to the classroom. Window, wall, and ceiling mounted systems often have fan noise and compressor noise that is in close proximity to a number of students. These problems are totally unnecessary. There are quieter window, wall, and ceiling units (although they are still rare). Noise in a ducted system results from poor design and inattention to noise issues. See How to test noise levels in an empty classroom? for information on how to test if existing noise levels from HVAC are a problem.
You’ve probably heard of the term from different contractors, engineers, or perhaps colleagues and business partners; but you’re still wondering what the initialism means. Well, HVAC (“H-V-A-C” or “H-VAK”) stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning—three closely related fundamental functions found in homes, offices, and other building structures. The beginning of HVAC is not clear, though as early as second century, a lot of Roman cities were using a central heating system known as hypocaust. This is further popularized during the Industrial Revolution as big factories used it. Now most modern buildings that you see have integrated HVAC. The HVAC system is also known as climate control. This is because these three functions are essential in maintaining comfort in every dwelling. The primary use of HVAC is to regulate room temperature, humidity, and air flow, ensuring that such elements remain within their acceptable ranges. Effective control of such factors minimizes health-
Choosing a home heating and cooling system is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make. Choosing a good system will lead to complete indoor comfort year round, as well as contribute to family health and energy efficiency. Choosing the wrong system can lead to an uncomfortable home environment, which can have an adverse effect on the family’s happiness. However, because the heating and cooling system is unseen, this important decision is often overlooked. We can help you understand the major types of heating and cooling systems in common use today, help you to identify a quality HVAC System contractor, and ensure that you and your family are provided the comfort you deserve.
