If you’re a new homeowner, you already know you have a lot to learn about your new home. Nowhere is that more apparent than your HVAC system! This complex set of terms, services, and parts plays an important role in your comfort in your home, all year round. While complex, this system is a crucial part of your home. Understanding commonly used terms and parts will not only help to recognize and diagnose potential issues, it will also help you keep your HVAC system healthy for years to come.

The HVAC Terms You Should Have in Your Vocabulary

  • SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): how cooling units’ efficiency is rated. The higher the SEER rating, in general, the more efficient the unit is.
  • Heating Seasonal Performance Factor: You’ll see your heat pump rated this way. The better the efficiency, the higher the rating.
  • BTU (British Thermal Units): The measure of heat used. It’s expressed in tons and equates the amount of heat required to cool.
  • CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): The measure of airflow
  • Cycling: When your HVAC system turns on or off.
  • HEPA filter: These air filters are designed to improve air quality in homes.
  • Airflow Volume: The amount of air that circulates through your home via the HVAC system. It is measured in cubic feet per minute.
  • Burner: A furnace burner is the heating component where heat is created from air mixing with fuel.
  • Capacity: The capacity (very important) indicates how powerful your HVAC system is. It is often expressed in BTUs.
  • Compressor: The heart of the air conditioning system, the compressor moves refrigerant from the evaporator and condenser coils.
  • Condenser Coil: The condenser coil holds the refrigerant in liquid form. These coils are made out of copper.
  • Condenser Fan: The condenser fan blows heat from the refrigerant system to the outside.
  • Cooling/Evaporator Coil:
  • Thermostat: This is the brains of your HVAC system where you can control and adjust comfort settings including temperature, humidity, fan times, and more.
  • Furnace:
  • Heat exchanger:
  • Air Handler: This separate part of some systems allows for better airflow through a building.
  • Refrigerant:
  • Humidifier:
  • Dehumidifier:
  • Heat Pump:

HVAC Experts in Chattanooga

HVAC systems are complicated. That’s why it’s a great idea to have them regularly serviced and maintained by licensed professionals. The HVAC experts at One Hour Heating & Air of Chattanooga can also help keep you educated on your system so that you can stay on top of any potential changes. Ready for service? Contact our HVAC specialists today!