BUENSALIDA, JOVELL P.

What Is HVAC and What Is Its Purpose?

HVAC is a familiar term used in the indoor heating and cooling industry. However, not many people
truly understand it beyond the acronym form. Not to worry! This post takes a deep dive into
everything you need to know about an HVAC system, including what it is, how it works, and its
overall purpose.

What is HVAC?

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It is a system that provides thermal
comfort and acceptable indoor air quality control in residential and commercial buildings. The main
purpose of HVAC systems is to maintain a comfortable environment by regulating temperature,
humidity, and air quality. In a nutshell, it is a combination of three systems: heating, ventilation, and
air conditioning.

How does it work?

The heart of every HVAC system is the air handling unit that provides thermal comfort, usually an air
handler or furnace. It is powered by gas, oil, electricity, fuel cells, heat recovery systems, or solar
energy. The source of power is not important because it sends heated or cool airflow via ductwork to
other parts of the building, including walls, vents, and floor grills, to maintain the desired comfort
level

Heating

The HVAC system warms the air in your home using a gas or electric heating element. It then
distributes the warm air via ducts to other air conditioning equipment in your home that needs it,
like bedrooms and living room areas with floor grilles and wall vents.

Air Conditioning

The HVAC system cools down rooms differently depending on the unit installed. A central air
conditioning system uses a cooling coil connected to an outside condensing unit. The unit then
distributes cooled air via ducts and vents in the home. Alternatively, window units are small air
conditioning systems that sit inside your windows for easy access.

Air Ventilation
The HVAC also helps improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants like smoke and dust from the
air. It does this using a process called mechanical ventilation, in which an outdoor fan draws polluted
indoor air into filters and then blows it out of your home via ducts under doors or through other
vents.

What types of HVAC can you find?

There are several types of HVAC systems you can choose from depending on your requirements and
budget:

• Split systems: This air conditioner system is the most common and popular. It consists of an
outdoor condensing unit and an indoor air handler or furnace. Split systems are efficient because
they only cool or heat the areas needed.

• Packaged systems: A packaged system is a single unit that contains both the outdoor and indoor
components in one cabinet. It is a good choice for homes with limited space.

• Ductless mini-split systems: A ductless mini-split air conditioner system is perfect for homes
without air ducts. It consists of an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor units mounted on
the wall.

• VRF (variable refrigerant flow) systems: VRF systems are used in larger buildings and can be
configured to provide heating, cooling, or both.
What is the purpose of an HVAC system?

 An HVAC serves various purposes in a home or business, and these include:

 Maintains a comfortable indoor environment
 The HVAC regulates temperature, humidity levels, and air quality to help maintain a
comfortable environment in your home or office.
 Prevents moisture and mold growth
 The HVAC system helps prevent moisture and mold growth by removing excess water vapor
from the air using a process called dehumidification.
 Eliminates allergens and pollutants
 The HVAC helps remove allergens and pollutants from the air using filtration. This prevents
them from being released into your home or office.
 Protects furnishings, equipment, and structure of a building
 The HVAC system protects furniture, equipment, facilities in our homes by removing
potentially harmful moisture buildup that can lead to corrosion and decay.
 Provides fresh air ventilation
 The HVAC system helps improve air quality by removing tiny and harmful particles in the air.
An outdoor fan draws polluted indoor air into filters and then blows it out of your home via
ducts under doors or through other vents.

How do you choose an HVAC system?

When choosing an HVAC system, you have to consider several factors, including:

 The size of your home or office

 Your budget for the project

 Location and orientation of the building in relation to sun exposure

 The climate in your area

 Whether you need a system that provides heating or cooling

How do you properly maintain an HVAC?

To keep your HVAC running at its best, follow these tips:

 Have your HVAC system inspected annually by a professional

 Keep your air filters clean and replace them as needed (recommended on an annual basis)

 Clean the coils of your outdoor condensing unit at least twice a year

Ensure all vents and ducts are unobstructed and free of dust, dirt, and other debris

(Troubleshooting HVAC issues can be a daunting task, but there are some basic steps you can
follow to identify and resolve the problem.

Step 1: Check the Thermostat

The first step in troubleshooting HVAC issues is to check the thermostat. Make sure the thermostat is
set to the desired temperature and that it is functioning correctly. If the thermostat is not working
correctly, it can cause the HVAC system to malfunction.

Step 2: Check the Air Filter

A dirty or clogged air filter can cause the HVAC system to malfunction. Make sure to check and
replace the air filter regularly, at least once every three months, or more frequently if you have pets
or allergies.

Step 3: Check the Power

Check the power supply to the HVAC system. Make sure that the circuit breaker is not tripped and
that the HVAC system is receiving power. If there is an issue with the power supply, it may be
necessary to call an electrician to fix the issue.

Step 4: Check the Ductwork

Check the ductwork for any leaks or obstructions. If there are any leaks or obstructions in the
ductwork, it can cause the HVAC system to malfunction. It may be necessary to call an HVAC
professional to fix any issues with the ductwork.

Step 5: Call an HVAC Professional

If none of the above troubleshooting steps resolves the HVAC issue, it is time to call an HVAC
professional. An experienced HVAC technician can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and
efficiently. It is important to have regular maintenance done on your HVAC system to prevent future
issues and keep the system running efficiently.)

(https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-troubleshooting-steps-in-HVAC)

How often should you replace your HVAC system?

Your HVAC system is the heart of a healthy home. It not only keeps your living/workspace
comfortable but also helps reduce energy costs while removing pollutants from the air maintaining
optimum indoor temperature and humidity levels. The system life span depends on the type installed
in your home, but a good rule of thumb is to replace it every ten years.

Is HVAC worth it?

If you are looking for a system that can maintain a comfortable environment in your home or office,
the answer is yes – an HVAC system is worth it! Not only does it keep you comfortable, but it also
protects your furniture, equipment, and structure from harm.

https://www.nwsolutionsheatingandair.com/blog/what-is-hvac-and-what-is-its-purpose/
The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry in the Philippines is influenced by
various factors, including the tropical climate, increasing urbanization, economic growth, and a
focus on energy efficiency. Below is a general overview of HVAC considerations specific to the
Philippines:

1. Climate Considerations

The Philippines has a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity, especially
during the summer months. HVAC systems need to effectively handle heat and humidity control.

2. HVAC Systems:

HVAC systems in the Philippines typically include air conditioning for cooling and ventilation to
improve indoor air quality, especially in commercial buildings, residential complexes, and industrial
spaces.

3. Regulations and Standards:

Compliance with local building codes, safety standards, and energy efficiency regulations is critical
when installing and operating HVAC systems in the Philippines.

4. Local HVAC Providers:

Several local and international HVAC manufacturers, distributors, and service providers operate in
the Philippines, offering a range of products and services to cater to the diverse HVAC market.