Most homeowners in Florida understand HVAC to be their heating and air conditioning systems, but the field of HVAC includes other aspects of indoor air comfort and climate control. HVAC is an acronym for heating, ventilation and air conditioning in residential and commercial applications. You may also see the acronym HVACR that includes refrigeration or HACR that does not include ventilation.
HVAC is a System, Not an Individual Component
The equipment of your HVAC system is designed to work as a unified system to control temperature and air quality. The system not only heats or cools the air, but also works to remove stale, contaminated air from your home. The overarching goal of a certified, licensed HVAC contractor, such as And Services, is to determine the combination of equipment that is cost-effective to the homeowner in both initial cost and operation. Qualified HVAC contractors also maintain a staff of technicians that are specially trained in installing, troubleshooting and maintaining the equipment. Most of today’s top HVAC manufacturers have restrictions on the contractors that can work with their equipment to protect the end-user from unnecessary air conditioning failures and repairs.
Sizing HVAC Systems
In order for an HVAC system to operate at the advertised efficiency, the system must be properly sized to your home and be used with compatible equipment. Our technicians will recommend systems based on the interior square footage of your home as well as your budget and environmental preferences.
Heating
You have a heating system so that your family stays comfortable during the winter months. In order to achieve this, your heating system must:
- Generate heated air via direct heat, steam or heated water that circulates through a furnace, heat pump or boiler
- When the air reaches the desired temperature, the system then distributes the heated air evenly throughout your home via convention, radiation or conduction
Ventilation
Many people confuse the terms distribution and ventilation. Air distribution refers to the delivery of air inside your home, whereas ventilation refers to a process of removing stale air from your home and replacing it with fresh air from the outdoors. Ventilation serves several purposes:
- Removing odors
- Controlling indoor temperature and humidity
- Improving indoor air quality by eliminating airborne pollutants
Some homeowners install additional equipment that is specifically designed to remove:
- Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and other noxious gases
- Pollen, mold and bacteria
- Dust and pet dander
- Cigarette smoke
Ventilation systems can be categorized by:
- Natural ventilation, such as louvers and windows
- Forced ventilation, such as exhaust fans, ceiling fans and other types of fans
Air Conditioning
The air conditioning equipment inside your home reduces air temperature through heat exchange. Air is passed over a special device that is cooled by a refrigerant. The heat from the air is transferred to the heat exchanger. Like heating, cooling is achieved via convection, radiation or conduction.
Choosing Your Preferred HVAC Contractor
When you are considering a new HVAC system or need maintenance on your current system, look for a contractor that is licensed with the State of Florida. You should verify that the technicians are specially trained in your type of system, including the brand. Additionally, ask if the technicians use the handbooks and other tools that are developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers, or ASHRAE.
And Services is a leading HVAC contractor in the Tampa area, and we are always available to answer your questions and service all of your HVAC needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or speak with a member of our staff.
