Definition
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems control temperature, humidity, air quality, and circulation. System sizing is based on heat loss/gain calculations. Proper installation and ductwork design are critical for performance.
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Find my pathAbout this term
HVAC systems include furnaces or heat pumps, air conditioning units, ductwork, thermostats, and controls. System sizing is based on heat loss/gain calculations for the specific home. HVAC efficiency is rated by AFUE (furnace) and SEER (cooling). Proper installation and ductwork design are critical for performance. Ductless mini-splits are increasingly popular for efficiency and flexibility. HVAC represents a significant portion of construction cost.
Pro Tip
Proper HVAC sizing is critical. Oversized systems cycle frequently and waste energy. Undersized systems struggle to maintain comfort.
Example
A home uses a high-efficiency heat pump (SEER 18) with proper load-calculation sizing and well-sealed ductwork in conditioned spaces.