Layman's Guide to HVAC Vernacular
SBS-NC, LLC Commercial HVAC & Electrical • February 7, 2023

A quick guide to understanding HVAC / Air-conditioning language

     Tired of not understanding what your HVAC contractor is talking about? Below are a few terms that will make your job easier! Call SBS-NC, LLC HVAC and electrical for all of your air conditioning and electrical needs.


  • SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) - This is a measure of how energy efficient an air conditioner or heat pump is. A higher SEER rating means lower energy costs and increased savings for the commercial property.


  • BTU (British Thermal Units) - This is a unit of energy used to measure the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. It’s used to measure the capacity of HVAC systems.


  • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) - This refers to the system that controls the temperature, humidity, and air quality in a building.


  • Ductwork - This is the network of pipes and tubes that carry air throughout a building, connecting the HVAC system to each room.


  • Zoning - This is the process of dividing a building into multiple temperature control zones, allowing for different areas to have different heating and cooling needs.


  • Thermostat - This is the device used to control the temperature in a building. Programmable thermostats can be set to automatically adjust the temperature, which can result in energy savings.


  • Refrigerant - This is the chemical used in air conditioners to transfer heat from one place to another. New HVAC systems use more environmentally friendly refrigerants, which can result in energy savings.


  • Furnace - This is the device used to heat air and distribute it throughout a building. High-efficiency furnaces use less energy, resulting in energy savings.


  • Heat Pump - This is a device that can both heat and cool a building, making it a more energy-efficient option compared to separate heating and cooling systems.


  • Evaporator Coil - This is the part of the air conditioner that removes heat and humidity from indoor air. Cleaning or replacing a dirty or damaged evaporator coil can improve its efficiency and save energy.


  • Condenser Coil - This is the part of the air conditioner that releases heat from the refrigerant to the outside air. Cleaning or replacing a dirty or damaged condenser coil can improve its efficiency and save energy.


  • Air Filter - This is the device used to remove pollutants and particles from the air in a building. Replacing dirty air filters can improve indoor air quality and increase HVAC efficiency.


  • Duct Sealing - This is the process of sealing air leaks in the ductwork, which can reduce energy waste and improve indoor air quality.


  • Insulation - This is the material used to slow the transfer of heat from one place to another, which can help improve HVAC efficiency and reduce energy costs.

     

     By understanding these 14 terms and taking steps like using programmable thermostats, installing high-efficiency furnaces, and sealing air leaks in the ductwork, commercial properties can reduce their energy costs and be more profitable. SBS-NC, LLC, as a professional HVAC and electrical contractor in High Point, North Carolina, can help commercial properties improve their HVAC systems and achieve greater energy efficiency. Call us today!


     SBS-NC, LLC is a Commercial HVAC and Electrical contractor operating in High Point NC, Winston Salem NC, Greensboro NC, Charlotte NC and most of the Southeastern US.


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