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What is HVAC? The Complete Guide for Homeowners


a technician is fixing an ac

HVAC system combines many useful functionalities into one and circulates air efficiently. An HVAC system will help to improve your home or office’s air quality while maintaining the temperature.

What is HVAC exactly? In this guide, we'll tell you more about HVAC systems and how they work.


What Is HVAC?

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It's a system that's used to both heat and cool a building.

An HVAC system is a ventilation system that works to replace and exchange the air in a building. This means that not only does an HVAC system help to regulate the temperature of a building, but it also improves the air quality. It removes odours, dust, and carbon dioxide and circulates air.

An HVAC system also helps to maintain humidity levels and regulates the temperature. 


How Do HVAC Systems Work?

There are 3 main HVAC system components. This includes a heating unit, a cooling unit, and ducts that allow the air to travel around.

HVAC systems pull air in from outside and then move the air through the ventilation system. The system either heats or cools the air and may also run it through air filters to get rid of dust and allergens.

While there are various types of HVAC systems, including ductless systems, most HVAC units are forced-air or central air systems. These systems circulate heated air and cold air throughout the home or commercial building.


Is HVAC and Air Conditioning the Same?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, an HVAC system and an air conditioner aren't exactly the same.

Air conditioning is just a single part of an HVAC system. An HVAC system serves more purposes than simply cooling your building and is also used for heating and ventilating a home and improving the air quality.

If you want a full system that will cool and heat your place while distributing and conditioning the air, then you need an HVAC system rather than just an air conditioner.


How Long Do HVAC Systems Last?

An HVAC system is a big investment for your commercial building. It's important to take great care of it if you want it to stand the test of time.

Generally, the average HVAC system will last between 15-25 years. However, this varies a lot based on how regularly you maintain it.

To keep your system lasting long, you will need to get regular servicing from an HVAC professional. Be sure that you get annual maintenance for your system if you want it to run efficiently and last a long time.


Understanding HVAC Systems

Now you understand how useful an HVAC system can be. An HVAC system can both heat and cool your home and will also help improve the air quality as well. 

Ready to install or replace an HVAC system? Get a quote from Special Gas Services today!

 

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