There is nothing worse than being lost in translation. Whether you are visiting a foreign country or simply trying to communicate a problem with your AC Unit, knowing the lingo and being able to articulate a need is vital in our society. In the world of HVAC repairs, knowing the terminology eliminates miscommunication, reduces work time and can save you money simply by being able to communicate what you want completed clearly. As such, here are a few of the most commonly used air conditioning terminology that you’ll need to understand in order to know what to ask when your AC unit breaks or simply need service.
Air Conditioning Systems
There are many different types of air conditioning systems that are commonly used in the Southwest. Knowing what type of system you have will make it easier to call for service and get detailed quotes as well as better service. Here are the most common units used to cool a home.
Central Air Conditioning System
This is an air conditioning system in which air is treated at a central location and circulated to and from multiple rooms by a series of fans and duct work that is installed inside the house. Most of the time the Central Air Conditioning system is located on the side of a home with fans located on each floor of the home.
Heat Pump
A heat pump is an HVAC unit that cools or heats a home by transferring heat. When it is cold, a heat pump draws heat from outdoor air and circulates it through your home’s air ducts. In the summer, it reverses the process and removes heat from your house. These units traditionally keep your home at a steady temperature. Heat pump systems are rather new and are becoming more common in Arizona.
Humidifier
These units are very common due to the dry air we have in Arizona. A humidifier is an indoor air quality device that introduces moisture to the air inside a home. It uses a constant source of water to supply the humidified air into the house and traditionally uses limited ventilation systems. Most humidifiers are installed on windows, or on a roof.
Split HVAC System
Some home owners in Arizona have a split HVAC system where some parts of the complete HVAC system are located outside and some are inside the home. These systems are matched to ensure energy efficiency.
AC Unit Parts
These are some of the most common parts that require service for traditional HVAC units.
Compressor
This is the part of the outdoor AC Unit or Heat Pump that pumps refrigerant and compresses it to cool the home.
Condenser Coil
The condenser coil is located outside and releases or collects the heat (in a heat pump unit) depending on what time of year it is.
Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is used on both AC Units and heat pump units and is used in the heating process during winter. Its primary job is to absorb heat from inside the home.
Refrigerant
This is the chemical that produces a cooling effect while vaporizing or expanding that keeps a house cool with most air conditioning units. Most residential units use R-22 refrigerant, or Freon.
You now have expanded your knowledge and vocabulary about air conditioning and heating units and their parts. Although it may not be the most exciting topic, knowing your air conditioning terminology will help you considerably when you need to call for any HVAC repairs or service on your unit.
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