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What Is HVAC?

Oct 10, 2019

People don’t always think about the systems that keep their homes and businesses running. In the modern age, we have a “set it and forget it” mentality – often taking modern conveniences for granted until they malfunction or stop working altogether. However, many of these systems – such as your HVAC equipment – are vital for the comfort and safety of your property. Therefore, it’s important to have a good understanding of their purposes, basic functions, and how to maintain them effectively.


Understanding the Basics of HVAC


HVAC stands for “heating, cooling, and ventilation.” It refers to the different components in your home or business that move air between indoor and outdoor areas and provide climate control. HVAC units are responsible for keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. However, this system does more than just heat and cool your indoor spaces. Each component works to improve your air quality, too.

 

There are several different types of commercial and residential HVAC systems, but most function in the same way. First, there must be a supply of fresh air from the outside or within the home itself. This is the source of ventilation. Many houses have natural ventilation that occurs through doors, windows, and vents. However, in new homes and businesses, mechanical ventilation may be necessary to move air in and out of the building, control humidity, remove odors, and more.

 

Once the air is brought into the home (whether through natural ventilation or mechanical means), it must pass through filters to remove dust, allergens, and dirt. After filtration, the air goes through the appropriate system (heating or cooling) to control your home or business’s temperature and remove excess humidity. In centralized systems, this involves the use of ductwork – a network of metal or synthetic tubes used to transport air throughout a building.

 

Any breakdown in your system, big or small, can lead to decreased efficiency, difficulty controlling air temperature or quality, and other negative effects. Therefore, regular HVAC maintenance is crucial to keep your equipment running efficiently. Frequent upkeep can also help you save money on your utility bills. If your system does malfunction, it’s essential to seek help from the best HVAC company in your area.


Types of HVAC Service


HVAC companies typically provide two types of service – residential and commercial. Residential HVAC service keeps your home’s systems, such as your furnace and air conditioner, operating at peak performance. Commercial HVAC companies, on the other hand, maintain equipment within businesses. This may include heating and cooling units, air circulators, dehumidifiers, and more. Often, commercial HVAC contractors deal with much larger, more complex systems.


Contact Smith & Company HVAC for High-Quality HVAC Service


Whether your home’s furnace needs repair, or you’d like to install a new air conditioning unit in your warehouse, look to the professionals at Smith & Company HVAC. We offer high-quality HVAC maintenance, repair, and replacement services to home and business owners in Pasadena, MD and Crownsville, MD. Count on us to keep your systems running at their best.



Call Smith & Company HVAC for trusted professional HVAC repair services at 410-874-0766.


10 Oct, 2023
Air conditioning systems are intricate machines that require routine maintenance to keep them running smoothly. A common issue homeowners face is a leaky air conditioner, which occurs for a variety of reasons. Some are easily fixable, but others require an AC repair company. Regardless of the reason for the leakage, it is important to address the issue sooner rather than later to avoid more irreparable damage. The first thing to look out for is frozen evaporator coils. The evaporator coil is a long-finned coil that links the unit to the output point. If the coil is frozen, turn off the unit immediately to avoid system failure. The ice covering the coil will cause the system to work overtime and possibly bottom out. The water leaking is caused by the ice melting after freezing on the coil. The next step will be to call an air conditioning repair company and contract an HVAC professional who can diagnose the cause of the frozen coil and replace it if needed. A clogged air filter likely caused the coil to freeze over. If the coil is not frozen, it is still good practice to turn off the unit to prevent any further water damage caused by the leak. Other reasons for a leaking AC system include: Dirty Coils The coils inside of the air conditioner unit can become dirty without proper cleaning. This layer of grime and dust can cause the normally occurring condensation on the evaporator coil to not flow down the coils and into the drip pan. Since that dirt is impeding the flow of moisture, it is forced to drip on the floor. This is an easy fix and does not require air conditioning services from an HVAC professional. Simply clean the coils on the inside of the unit. Damaged Insulation The insulation around the coils in the interior of the unit might be damaged, resulting in a leak. If the insulation is damaged, the condensation will drip from the coil instead of flowing down the coil as it should. If this is the case, you will need HVAC repair services to fix the damaged insulation or install new insulation. Clogged Trap or Drain Line A clogged drain line or trap is caused by dirt build-up and the lack of routine maintenance of your air conditioning unit. The condensation carried down the coils can bring dirt and debris that then clog the drain line or trap. When the drain line clogs, it doesn't allow for normal draining and creates a drip. This requires a thorough cleaning of the drain line or trap and shouldn’t require an HVAC professional. Detached Drain Line  This issue usually occurs from poor AC unit installation practices. If the drain line that drains the condensation created is not properly connected, it will leak. Although the mess may be big, the fix is easy. You’ll need to call an air conditioning service company to reinstall the drain line. Searching for the “Best HVAC Company Near Me?” Smith & Co Is Here to Answer the Call! Routine maintenance of your air conditioner system is vital to keeping the system running smoothly without leaks. Failure to keep the unit clean will cause dirt build-up, requiring the system to work overtime to keep the air cool. This creates wear and tear on the unit, and you might have to repair the system more often or even replace the system altogether. At Smith & Company HVAC, we understand that AC unit leaks can be frustrating. Don’t hesitate to reach out and have an experienced HVAC professional fix any leak issues.
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