HVAC System Components and Their Functions

HVAC System Components:

The HVAC system, written in full as heatings, ventilation, & air conditioning systems, play essential roles in maintaining comfort indoors within your Mansfield, TX, residence.

In addition to keeping you & your family comfortable during adverse weather conditions, they can also help remove or reduce hazardous gas emissions as well as filter dust, odors, and chemical contaminants.

HVAC units rely on chemical & carbon activated filters to keep these contaminants away. Your home’s heating & air conditioning service can also ensure that the building and equipment last for a long time.

This is by effectively maintaining room temperature between 69.80 and 75.20 degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity levels between 50 & 60 percent.

As a result of the above benefits, it is estimated that approximately 100 million American homes have a functional air conditioning system. In the past, only a few of them understood the different types of HVAC systems, how they work, what part they are made of, & their underlying components.

These pieces of knowledge can help them ensure that their units continue to function throughout the year. It also helps identify signs that show the time to schedule HVAC service to prevent further inconveniences down the roads.

In that regard, you should firsts understand the different types of heating and cooling systems that a heating and air conditioning service specialist can install in your home. Your HVAC technician can mount traditional heating and air conditioning split system.

These are the most common and mostly include both indoor and outdoor units. In addition, to split systems, your HVAC service contractor may also install hybrid split systems, ductless HVAC units, or packaged heating & AC systems, depending on your tastes and preferences.

Even though the physical characteristic of this unit may vary, they are generally composed of three major parts, heating, air conditioning, and ventilation.

Heating & air conditioning service providers near Mansfield, TX, may also install a thermostat to help adjust thermal conditions based on current weather conditions. These parts depend on the action of the following components to perform their functions.

HVAC System Components Diagram:

In the following diagrams, you can find some of the major components that are quite related to all HVAC systems. Of course, there are differences between different HVAC system configurations, but the basic concept and HVAC components are fundamentally common among them all.

The following diagram shows a work cycle in an HVAC system, which can be intended for both heating and cooling applications where heat is absorbed and where it is rejected.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning; Therefore, the design of such systems is mostly with some air ventilating and cleaning procedures integrated with these systems.

Thermostat:

The temperature sensor on the thermostat indicates when the heater or air conditioner should run or turn off. There may be different thermally controlled areas, each requiring its own thermostat.

The thermostat should be located as far as possible from areas of concentrated temperature difference with the average temperature of the intended location.

Heat Generator:

The heat generator is a key member of HVAC system components when it comes to heating. What happens in these devices is, for example, the production of heat through the extraction of fuel energy inside a furnace, aka a combustion chamber.

The hot flue gases will then provide heat for air or any other fluid such as water which will then heat the air entering the conditioned environment. Electric heat generation can also be used to heat the conditioning air.

While there may be many options for heat generators, the most common forms are furnaces, and therefore, environmental concerns regarding these HVAC system components are important to consider for resource control and combustion efficiency for pollutant emissions.

Combustion efficiency is the proper and complete reaction of fuel with oxygen inside the furnace so that no fuel is wasted.

The efficiency of the furnace can be increased by optimal transfer minimum loss of the generated heat to the next desired medium, whether it is conditioning air or other fluids such as water.

The general idea of this would be proper mixing of fuel and air inside the furnace; well glow sticks or igniters, optimum heat transfer, and operation safety as well.

Heat Exchanger:

Heat exchangers are one of the HVAC system components that receive heat generates in the heat generation unit & transfer it to another fluid.

Some control units will activate furnace or electric heating elements when necessary to regulate the temperature of the air passing through heat exchangers. Heats exchangers, along with the combustion chamber and blower motor, are found within the furnace, which is the source of heat in most homes.

According to HVAC service experts, the main role of a heat exchanger is to facilitate heat transfer within the furnace. It specifically exposes the untreated air from your residence to the heat produced by the combustion chamber based on current thermostat settings.

Conditioned air is distributed indoors with the help of ductwork installed by your heating and air conditioning service professional.

Some central heating systems may have an additional duct that allows cold air from your living space to enter the heats exchanger much faster, heating up your home more quickly.

Although HVAC service experts consider the heat exchangers to be quite flexible due to their stainless steel and alloy composition, they can still be damaged as a result of standard wear and tear. Cracks and holes can develop, creating a carbon monoxide hazard that you should never ignore.

Carbon monoxides leaks, which are difficult to detect because the gas is colorless & odorless, can not only cause death but can also cause bothersome symptoms ranging from nausea and headache to dizziness.

Fortunately, you can tell when a leak occurs by asking your heating and air conditioning service specialist to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.

If a leak does occur, attempting to fix the situation alone can quickly go awry, so it’s best to leave the issue to the professionals in heating and AC repair.

Combustion Chamber:

The combustions chamber inside your home’s heating and air-conditioning service is where the unit’s fuel combines with oxygen transported through a bend in the return duct and another source of ignition to produce heat.

If you have gas furnaces in your home, the pilot switch is often the main source of ignition, & in electric central heating systems, an electric switch is used for this purpose.

In furnaces that burn oil or gas, the fuel must first be exposed to air to vaporize so that it reaches the ignition switch for combustion. If a fault occurs during the evaporation phase, the chamber fills with water and collapses due to pressurized pressure.

In such circumstances, you may need to contact your heating & air conditioning service provider for replacements. Depending on the types of HVAC systems installed in your homes, your technicians may install an open or sealed combustion chamber.

Most HVAC systems use open models because they are cheaper. However, HVAC professionals recommend closed combustions chambers because they are safer and more efficient.

They can capture and remove escaped carbon monoxide particles, protecting you and your family from the dangerous effects of the gas.

Refrigerant and Refrigerant Loop:

If your local heating & air conditioning service contractor has installed a traditional HVAC system, you may have noticed two components. The components mentioned above are in the furnace, which is responsible for keeping your home warm in cold weather.

During the summer, your home relies on an air conditioning system or heat pump to stay cool under the constant Texan heat. To do this efficiently, these units use refrigerant, a chemical known for its ability to change from gas to liquid & vice versa as easily as it is a chlorofluorocarbon.

Although this compound can cause harm to people & the environment, they exhibit exceptional performance when used in vapor compression refrigeration systems.

In the past, for refrigerant to effectively reach the various components of your home’s air conditioning service, it passed through a network of pipes known as the refrigerant loop. Damage to these pipes can lead to leakage of refrigerant.

That’s why you should always get them inspected by a skilled air conditioning service professional. In addition, refrigerant leaks can cause ice to build up within the system, resulting in reduced efficiency and the need for a repair or replacement solution.

Combustion Chamber:

Combustions chambers inside your home’s heating and air-conditioning service are where the unit’s fuel combines with oxygen transported through a bend in the return duct and another source of ignition to produce heat.

If you have gas furnaces in your home, the pilot switch is often the main source of ignition, and in electrics, central heating systems and electrics switches are used for this purpose.

In such circumstances, you may need to contact your heating and air conditioning service provider for a replacement. Depending on the types of HVAC systems installed in your home, your technician may install an open or sealed combustion chamber.

Most HVAC systems use open models because they are cheaper. However, HVAC professionals recommend closed combustion chambers because they are safer and more efficient.

They can capture and remove escaped carbon monoxide particles, protecting you and your family from the dangerous effects of the gas.

Refrigerant and Refrigerants Loop:

If your local heating and air conditioning services contractor has installed a traditional HVAC system, you may have noticed two components. The components mentioned above are in the furnace, which is responsible for keeping your home warm in cold weather.

Although this compound can cause harm to people & the environment, and they exhibit exceptional performance when used in vapor compression refrigeration systems.

In the past, for refrigerant to effectively reach the various components of your home’s air conditioning service, it passed through a network of pipes known as the refrigerant loop.

Damage to these pipes can lead to leakage of refrigerant. That’s why you should always get them inspected by a skilled air conditioning service professional.

In addition, refrigerant leaks can cause ice to build up within the system, resulting in reduced efficiency and the need for a repair or replacement solution.

Blowers:

Air forced by one of the HVAC systems components, called a blower, through the heat exchanger into the air ducting that will move the hot air to where it is intended. Blowers are driven by electric motors with a shaft. The airflow can be adjusted by modifying the motor speed.

Such motors should be of variable speed type. Variable speed motor blowers will reach incrementally higher speeds, and therefore reduce the amount of noise when a small amount of air is needed.

This gradual increase of speed will reduce the wear and tear of the rotating parts as well as reduce the energy consumption of the unit; Therefore, the cost of operation and maintenance will be low for this type of blower.

Condenser Coil or Compressor:

One of the important HVAC systems components is the compressor or condensers coils which are normally excluded. The hot refrigerant gas is carried to a compressor to dissipate heat to the external environment and convert it into a liquid form.

This liquid refrigerant is carried through copper or aluminum tubes to the evaporator coil. Otherwise known as the condenser coil, the compressors are an essential part of your home air conditioner or heat pumps.

HVAC installation professionals often place it outside, & its main job is to cool the inside of your home by leaving untreated air outside.

During such instance, condense or compress the above refrigerant, changing its state from a hot gas to cold liquids. A fan then blows air over the condenser’s coil to dissipate the heat and rapidly cool the refrigerant.

Following this process, your residential air conditioning service then distributes the liquid refrigerant through a network of aluminum or copper ducts to the evaporator coils.

To ensure that HVAC systems remain efficient throughout the year, air conditioning service experts recommend that you keep dirt, grass clippings & fallen leaves away from the condenser’s coils.

They also recommend that you schedule annuals cleaning service with professional technicians to ensure that the outdoor unit remains clean. If the systems are relatively new, you should ask your HVAC service contractors to install more shade on the awning.

During AC installation service, you should also ensure that the contractor leaves enough free space around the unit to guarantee effective air circulation.

Evaporator Coil:

The evaporator coil is one of the HVAC system components located indoors that receives the condensed refrigerant liquid from the compressor. The liquid refrigerant is atomized by spray nozzles that increase the rate of evaporation of the refrigerant when exposed to the hot air of the room.

Found inside your home’s air handlers, the evaporator coils are an important part of a larger air conditioning or heat pump system.

Through multiple expansion valves and tiny nozzles, it sprays to help the refrigerant change from liquid to gas faster, leading to the absorption of heat, which in turn creates the cooling effect you experience during summer.

During the process, your system’s fan blows hot air through return ducts over the evaporator coils. After all the heat is removed, it distributes the conditioned air through ductwork to the rooms in your home.

Next, the AC unit then sends the heated refrigerant back to the compressor to start the cooling cycle again. To complete the entire cooling process, hot air passes over the evaporator coil, causing condensation.

As a result, this action lowers indoor humidity levels, making the home feel cooler during hot weather. If you have asked your heating and air conditioning service contractors to install heat pumps instead of standard air conditioners, you may still be able to live comfortably inside your home regardless of the conditions outside.

Heat pumps can reverse heat transfer in cold weather, bringing heat from outside and removing cold air. Although hot air can make the inside of your home less humid, your air conditioning service provider can install an industrial-grade humidifier to help improve air quality.

In the past, similar to other HVAC components, the evaporator coil could also develop problems if you intentionally ignore its maintenance needs. For example, condensation may begin to form on its surface, a scenario that can result in mold growth & excessive dirt or dust accumulation.

A leak within the refrigerant line can cause ice to accumulate on the evaporator coil, even in hot weather. There are fans that blow the hot air of the room through the return ducts on the evaporator.

The hot air rejects the heat to the atomized refrigerant and cools, after which it is sent back through the ducting to the rooms.

As the air passes over the cold evaporators coils, its moisture level will decrease due to the condensation of the moist air on the coil.

The reduction in humidity makes the air feel even cooler, thereby increasing the efficiency of the cooling process. The hot gas will again be transferred to the condenser coil to repeat the cycle.

Air Ducts and Vents:

Air is moved through ducts to reach the various HVAC system components. Good ducting is essential for delivering high-quality air to the area. Duct leakage can cause noise while the system is working.

Also, when the air ducting is not in good condition, odors and excess moisture can fill the air. Air is delivered to the rooms, passings through the vents.

Vents can be equipped with air filters to prevent dust and small particles from entering the room. Air filters can also be installed elsewhere inside the ducting.

Fans:

Air conditioning services professionals near Mansfield, TX, may install fans in homes with large HVAC systems, which may have an extensive network of ducts coming through the building.

Their main function is to regulate airflows, ensuring that it remains optimal. If you live in a large home and notice that HVAC components are not performing as well, you should probably install them.

This phenomenon often means that the air pressure within the ductwork may be too low, and fans can help correct the situation.

Although fans are used more commercials than in residential properties, you can ask your AC service contractors to install exhaust fans in the kitchen to help prevents smoke & condensation from building up.

Air Filter and Dust Collector:

Most ventilation systems rarely require an air filter and dust collector for efficient operation. However, it would’s be a good idea to have them installed by experienced heating and AC service professionals as they can trap pollutant particles, preventing them from being distributed indoors.

These cans go a long way in ensuring the air you breathe is clean, reducing your risk of respiratory infections. The modern air filter model may have an electrostatically charged pleat designed to capture the tiniest of microbes, including bacteria and fungi, that can cause respiratory illnesses.

Air filters can be easily integrated into your system’s ductwork, while dust collectors are much larger because they are actively involved in eliminating contaminants from the air you breathe.

For this reason, air conditioning service professionals around Mansfield, TX, recommend the use of the latter in business settings rather than at home.

Heat Pump Vs. Air Conditioner:

What happens in heat pumps is the reverse process occurring in an air-conditioning unit, but with the same components as air-conditioners. Therefore, in cold weather, the heat from outside will be transferred inwards.

Split Units:

To clarify, the use of these HVAC system components for one of the widely used air conditioning/heat pump systems, i.e. split units, condensers/compressors, are excluded.

FAQ: HVAC System Components and Their Functions

What does HVAC stand for?

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. These systems are essential for maintaining indoor comfort by regulating temperature, humidity, and air quality.

What are the main components of an HVAC system?

The main components of an HVAC system include the thermostat, heat generator, heat exchanger, combustion chamber, refrigerant and refrigerant loop, blowers, condenser coil or compressor, evaporator coil, air ducts and vents, fans, and air filter and dust collector.

How does a thermostat function in an HVAC system?

A thermostat monitors the indoor temperature and signals the HVAC system to turn on or off to maintain the desired temperature. It should be placed away from temperature extremes for accurate readings.

What is the role of the heat generator in an HVAC system?

The heat generator produces heat by burning fuel in a furnace or using electric heating elements. This heat is then transferred to the air or another fluid to warm the indoor space.

What does a heat exchanger do?

A heat exchanger transfers heat from the heat generator to the air or another fluid, which is then distributed throughout the home. It is crucial for efficient heating and can be prone to wear and tear over time.

What happens in the combustion chamber of an HVAC system?

The combustion chamber is where fuel mixes with oxygen and ignites to produce heat. It can be either an open or sealed chamber, with sealed chambers being safer and more efficient.

How does refrigerant work in an HVAC system?

Refrigerant is a chemical that changes state from liquid to gas and back, absorbing and releasing heat in the process. It is essential for cooling in air conditioners and heat pumps.

What is the function of blowers in an HVAC system?

Blowers move air through the heat exchanger and into the ductwork for distribution throughout the home. They are driven by electric motors and can be of variable speed for better efficiency and reduced noise.

What is the purpose of the condenser coil or compressor?

The condenser coil or compressor converts refrigerant from a hot gas to a cool liquid, releasing heat to the external environment. It is a critical component for cooling in air conditioning systems.

How does the evaporator coil contribute to cooling?

The evaporator coil receives liquid refrigerant from the compressor and facilitates its evaporation, which absorbs heat from indoor air. This process cools the air, which is then circulated throughout the home.

Why are air ducts and vents important?

Air ducts and vents distribute conditioned air throughout the home. Proper ductwork ensures efficient airflow and minimizes noise and leakage, while vents can include filters to trap dust and particles.

When should fans be used in an HVAC system?

Fans are used to regulate airflow in large HVAC systems, particularly in commercial settings. They help maintain optimal air pressure within ductwork and can be installed in kitchens to prevent smoke and condensation buildup.

What is the benefit of having an air filter and dust collector?

Air filters and dust collectors trap pollutants and contaminants, improving indoor air quality. They reduce the risk of respiratory infections by ensuring that the air you breathe is clean.

What is the difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner?

A heat pump can reverse its operation to provide heating by transferring heat from outside to inside, whereas an air conditioner only cools indoor air. Heat pumps use the same components as air conditioners but can function in both heating and cooling modes.

What are split units in HVAC systems?

Split units are HVAC systems that have separate indoor and outdoor components. The outdoor unit typically houses the compressor and condenser, while the indoor unit contains the evaporator coil and blower. They are commonly used for both air conditioning and heating purposes.