People managing facilities or homes may need to decide between HVAC or air conditioning at some point. This article seeks to explain the difference between the two.
HVAC
HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems can heat or cool an environment. HVACs are particularly popular in countries with hot summers and cold winters. As a result, both functions are utilized. In addition, an HVAC system is used to ventilate and dilute bio-effluents (an organic contaminant that may result in poor air conditions) to purify the air and make the space as comfortable as possible. The four main HVAC systems are; heating and cooling split system, hybrid split system, duct-free (split system) and package heating and air.
Air conditioning
Instead of using energy to create heat, an air conditioning system will go against this natural process. It collects hot air from a room and processes it with the assistance of a refrigerant and coils. The cooler air is then released into the same area that the warm air was collected from. Unlike HVAC systems, AC systems tend to be used in countries with hot summers but mild winters (for example, in India) as there’s less demand for the heating function. The three main air conditioning systems are; window units, central air conditioning, and mini-split systems.
The main difference between HVAC and air conditioning
In summary, HVAC systems look after the heating and cooling (or both) whereas an AC system generally refers to a system used for cooling – although some people will use it to generate warm air too.
Air conditioning vs. HVAC maintenance
To ensure the efficiency of an AC system, it is important to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce a system’s efficiency significantly.
The result of this would mean that the air would bypass the filter which would result in first going straight into the coil and as a result damaging it. This can also have financial implications, as replacing a filter can lower the air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
Regular maintenance can increase the efficiency of an HVAC system too. It also ensures that the system is at its peak performance, minimizing the health implications to users. Pre-season HVAC system maintenance is essential and should be routinely planned. The start of Spring and the beginning of Fall is the best time to do this – this ensures that the system is ready for the hottest/coldest climates and the best and most efficient service is guaranteed.
Here at NCH Asia Pacific, we have been maintaining HVAC systems for many years and are dedicated to offering the best HVAC maintenance and cleaning solutions on the market. Our maintenance products can; improve air quality, increase system efficiency, prolong the life of your system, and save you money by reducing your energy bill.
Sources:
https://smarterhouse.org/cooling-systems/types-cooling-systems
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner