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What Is Included in an HVAC System?

May 03, 2021

The term “HVAC” stands for “heating, ventilation, and air conditioning” – three integral systems in every home and business. While HVAC home systems and commercial HVAC systems differ in a few ways, their primary purpose is the same: To keep us safe and comfortable in our homes and workplaces, regardless of the temperature outside.

 

Let’s take a closer look at the specific components that make up HVAC systems, as well as how these elements differ in residential and commercial settings.


What Is Included in a Residential HVAC System?


A complete residential HVAC system consists of a heating unit, a ventilation system, and an air conditioning unit. Additional components may include air filtration and cleaning elements. The heating portion of the system typically consists of a boiler or furnace. If the system uses forced air, ductwork is necessary to provide heat throughout the home. Otherwise, a network of pipes will deliver hot water or steam throughout the building to heat it. The home’s water system may also be connected to the HVAC system to provide hot water to bathrooms and kitchens.

 

The ventilation part of an HVAC system can be natural or forced, although the latter is most common. While natural ventilation systems simply let air exit the home, forced varieties are often used to clean the air in addition to circulating it throughout the building.

 

A home’s air conditioning system is used to remove heat from the inside of the house during the warmer months of the year. There are several types of air conditioning systems, including central air conditioning, ductless air conditioning, and window AC units. The setup you choose will largely depend on your home’s construction. For example, if you don’t have existing ductwork, you might opt for ductless AC or window units.

 

Installing a complete HVAC system in the home usually allows all three components to be controlled through one interface. This is beneficial, as it eliminates the need for separate controllers and thermostats for each individual component. Additionally, an integrated HVAC setup guarantees that the different units do not work against each other.


What Is Included in a Commercial HVAC System?


Offices, schools, stores, restaurants, factories, churches, hospitals, and other commercial buildings benefit from complete HVAC systems as well. However, these systems differ from those in residential homes, as they serve larger spaces and more people. Additionally, HVAC systems for commercial buildings are also typically located on the roof of the building. This protects the equipment from vandalism, utilizes unused space, and allows HVAC technicians to access the components with ease.

 

Residential HVAC systems usually have an indoor evaporator and an outdoor compressor. However, in a commercial building, both units are combined into a single rooftop air conditioner and generally use multiple thermostats. This allows the temperature in different parts of the building to be regulated as needed. The last major difference in commercial HVAC systems is that they consist of modules, as opposed to standalone residential setups. These modules allow flexibility in increasing or reducing heating and cooling capacities.


Looking for High-Quality HVAC Service and Repair? Smith and Co Can Help


If you’re in need of a new HVAC system for your home or commercial building, look to Smith & Company HVAC. Our HVAC technicians specialize in both commercial and residential systems and can help you choose a setup that meets your unique needs and specifications. Plus, we install, clean, inspect, and maintain all types of HVAC equipment and can identify and repair any problems you may experience.

 

For more information about our services, contact Smith & Company today at (410) 972-9343. We look forward to speaking with you!


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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