Heating and cooling 101

When talking about a home air conditioning system, there are many variable parts that may come into play. While this may be complicating, the most important thing to understand is what the air conditioning does - at a very basic level. Once simplified, you can see that an air conditioning unit is used to either maintain temperature or heat and cool the home, hence the name "HVAC" (standing for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning).

HVAC systems are usually classified within two categories - central or local systems. The central HVAC system procudes hot or cold air in one area (centralized) and then sends this air throughout the home, using the duct system to distribute the air. The local HVAC system, on the other hand, prodcues the hot or cold air at the precise location of the unit., rather than distributing using a duct system This is usually served best if the location is smaller.

Heating

In order to keep your home warm and comfortable, you require a unit that circulates the air and produces warmer air for your environment. If you live in a colder environment, this heating becomes that much more important and necessary. You need to be familiar with the function of your heating system and how it works. Most heating and cooling air conditioning units are considered "forced air systems" due to the fact that they force air through the ductwork and use this method for distribution. This ductwork usually contains filters or products that clean the air.

Cooling

We all know how important an air conditioning unit can be in the summer time, but do we know how it even works? Air conditioning units providing cooling through the use of refrigerants and coils. Normally, Puron and Freon Refrigerent is delivered to the evap coil. Once they meet, the coil dissipates the coolant and this in turn blows the cool air into ducts, which end up going to your room or office.

Duct Free Split System

A duct free split system acts exactly how its name sounds. This type of system does not require air ducts to distribute the air (hot or cold). Instead, this product can be added to a specific room, such as the living room. Once installed, these systems can supply cooling, heating and all of the above. This split system has earned its name through the use of two units. Once unit sits outside the home while the other sits on your wall, as a controller of airflow.

For example, a thermostat is considered a duct free split system. A thermostat usually sits on your wall and controls the functionality of your air conditioner, whether it be for cool or warm air. Thermostats bring the home to a set temperature and are programmable, even allowing for precise timing of the system's functions.