What Is HVAC? Answers to Every Homeowner's Questions

Modern American homes are kept comfortable through the use of modern HVAC systems. But while you've probably heard this term many times, what does it really mean for you and your house? Here are a few of the most important questions you may have about how your HVAC system works so you can make the most of it. 

Is There Just One HVAC System?

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. While this is often referred to as a single thing, it is actually a somewhat complex network of different elements.

The three main components—warming your home, cooling it, and providing ventilation—may use different methods, have different maintenance requirements, and expire at different rates. But they work best when balanced with each other. This is why it's all handled by one category of professionals. 

What Are the Most Common Systems?

Most American homes use one of a few basic types of HVAC systems. One generally pairs an air conditioner and a furnace for the cooling and warming functions. Both take in outside air and run it through a dedicated appliance that cools or heats that air. Potentially dangerous fumes created in the process are expelled through a flue or vent. Then, blowers or fans push the treated air through ducts to your rooms. 

Another popular option is a heat pump system. This makes things more efficient by combining the cooling and heating processes into one unit rather than a furnace and air conditioner. Heat pumps focus on removing the natural heat out of warm air to cool the home or using it to heat up coils to warm the inside air. 

What Other Functions Does It Do?

The modern HVAC system doesn't just heat or cool your inside air. It also performs vital air quality management functions. The ducts that move cold or warm air also circulate interior air. Good circulation helps reduce dust and allergens, lowers room humidity, and prevents stagnant air from feeling stifling and thick. 

The system also filters the air that runs through it. You may hear your technician mention the need to check and change furnace filters or other filtering components. This is an important maintenance task to ensure that it can remove dust, dander, soot, mold, and allergens from the outside air vital to an HVAC system. You may even choose particular filters based on how sensitive your family and pets are to certain allergens. 

Specialized additions help with specific air quality issues. Humidifiers add moisture to overly dry air, for example, while dehumidifiers remove excess moisture. You may also opt for air purifiers which kill bacteria and viruses that otherwise circulate in the home. 

When Does Your System Need Changed?

A new HVAC system operates at peak efficiency. But all its various components have their own natural lifespan. Find out the normal life expectancy of the main appliances—the furnace, heat pump, and air conditioner—according to the manufacturer. Those with heavy use may wear out earlier, but this is a guide to when to begin preparing for replacement costs. 

In addition, look for indicators that components of your system are no longer efficient. If you do significant remodeling that changes the interior layout of the home—such as adding or removing walls—you may need different units or the ductwork may need to be altered.

Have your utility bills risen? If so, the components may be working too hard and using too much energy to do their jobs. And of course, pay attention to rising repair costs and more frequent repair trips. It eventually becomes more cost-effective to replace an aging unit rather than put more money into it. 

Where Should You Start?

What other questions do you have about HVAC systems in your home? Get answers by meeting with Malone Heating & Air. We'll help you understand your system, alternative choices that might work better, and how to keep it functioning well for as long as possible. Call today to make an appointment.