What Does HVAC Stand For?

Over other years, HVAC has always been heard all around the world. Also, a lot of persons has thought the HVAC functions in a quite complicated manner, whereas, it is very simple and easy to understand. Furthermore, a lot of people had always wanted to be a HVAC technician, but lack the right skills and are not certified. Today, there are several HVAC programs offered by many accredited schools. It is very easy to enroll in one and get certified after studying.

Definition HVAC

 is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. In heating and cooling of buildings, air is often moved from inside these buildings to the outside. The various methods used for moving and circulating air in buildings, is referred to as HVAC.

Overview

The HVAC systems with its triple function, has been useful in providing a comfortable thermal level and a high quality air. This system can be installed and used in various environments, as well as in vehicles.

These systems are often functional and installed in residential buildings, industrial buildings, institutional buildings as well as commercial buildings.

These systems works according to the ambient temperature of the environment, and according to the temperature set by the users Once installed, the HVAC system takes in the air outside the buildings, gets it cooled or heated before circulating it inside the buildings. It continues this way until the system is turned off, or the machine gets spoilt.

If there\'s a need for repairing the machine, it is important to contact a certified HVAC technician who is skilled, and understands the HVAC system.

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Oftentimes, the weather gets extremely cold and there is need to supply some heat into the building. The heating function of the HVAC system helps maintain the temperature of the air to suitable thermal level. The ventilation function of the HVAC system also keeps the air in various buildings less humid, and provides fresh air which circulates around the building. Furthermore, the air conditioning function of the HVAC system supplies cooled air to various part of the building, once the thermostat has been set for a lower temperature.

History

The concept of HVAC started in 1902 when Willis Carrier invented a system that helps to reduce humidity, in order to keep papers in a good condition. A lot of persons were intrested in this Carrier\'s invention. This system was known as the "Apparatus for Treating Air". Although, before Willis Carrier\'s invention, the Egyptians and Indians started making animate fans to cool the air, and this happened hundreds of years ago.

In 1906, Stuart Cramer a textile mill engineer created a ventilating system that creates a humid atmosphere, that makes the works on yarns easier. This machine creates the humid environment by releasing water vapour into the air. Furthermore, the Rivoli Theatre in New York City (US), installed a system in the theatre in 1925.

This system was designed by Willis Carrier, and was installed to the blow air for its patrons. The first individual air conditioning unit, invented by H.H. Schultz and J.Q. Sherman in 1931, was introduced to the public. This system was created to work on window ledges, and was sold to several persons. It was an amazing invention, but were quite expensive for some persons to purchase. Its cost price were between $10,000 to $50,000. The air come concept moved further, as the first air conditioned car was introduced in 1939.

Furthermore, in the 1950s several millions of AC units were installed in various homes around America. In light of these creations, a ventilation system was invented in the 1970s. This machine releases both cooled and heated air into buildings, when they are needed. The system was designed to work with coils, condenser and a fan.

Freon, a refrigerant was also created. However, in later years Freon was seen to be quite harmful to the environment. The efficiency of the HVAC systems were further increased to 30% as Toshiba created the inverter type of compressors in 1980. Several brands of an environmentally friendly refrigerants (coolants) were created in 1994.

This was several years after Freon was created. In recent times, there are several types of the HVAC systems. These systems are more efficient and are available for sale all over the world.

How Does HVAC Works?

The HVAC keeps the movement of air in control, as it maintains the thermal level of the air to provide quality air. The HVAC system is made up of various components, which includes the refrigerant lines, the condensing unit, the evaporator coil, the vents, the furnace, and the thermostat. The refrigerant lines function as tubes carrying refrigerants in a geaseous state, to the condensing unit. In installing the HVAC system, the condensing unit is usually at the outer part of the building.

Once the refrigerants transported by the refrigerant lines, are been stored in the condensing unit, it is cooled and changed into a liquid state. Then, the liquid is transferred from the condensing unit to the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is the part of the HVAC system that reduces the temperature of the air supplied. This cool air is supplied once the system\'s thermostat has been set to keep the temperature low. The cool air is moved through an outlet known as the vent.

The vents do not only help to move in cool air, they also move in heated air when the HVAC thermostat has been set for a high temperature. To ensure that a comfortable and quality air keeps moving in, it is important to keep the vents open, and not blocked. The furnace is responsible for heating air, using various sources of heat. These sources that supplies the furnace with heat includes, electrical resistance, solar energy, heat pumps, etc. This part of the HVAC system is quite large, and it is situated inside the buildings. The heated air is distributed the pipes, and released via the vents into different parts of the building.

Furthermore, the thermostat is like a switch which is used to regulate the temperature according to the weather conditional. It is often installed on walls, where it can be easily accessible by the users. It can be set manually, whereby users have to keep setting the desired level of temperature needed. It can also be set automatically where by the HVAC system get triggered by the thermostat for the temperature alternation, according to the ambient temperature of the building. Heating In nature, heat can be of two types.

The first is the direct systems which involves the use of radiators or hydronic to directly move heat into a place. The second is the forced heat system which involves the use of fans to blow hot air into a place. In the forced air system, the air is being heated in a furnace. This furnace uses either electric power or gas power. Once the heated air is released, its initial temperature is later losses to the ambient temperature of the environment (the air temperature reduces). The cool air is then returned to the system, and the heating continues.

Furthermore, heat pumps can also be used in heating air. They usually heat the environment, making use of heated air or geothermal energy. Ventilation The process of controlling air temperature and air humidity, also removing dusts by air replacement is known as ventilation. There are two types of ventilation system; natural ventilation system and forced ventilation system. The natural ventilation system involves the use of certain vents and window louvers to transport air, in and out of the buildings.

These systems does not provide enough comfort, but it uses very minimal energy. The forced ventilation system controls humidity and improves the air quality by reducing dusts and odour. This is done by the replacement of the air which comes from outside the buildings.

Air Conditioning This system provides a cooling effect, as well as humidity in an environment. In buildings where these systems are installed, all passages that allows external air to come in (windows and doors), are kept shut in order to maintain a constant condition.  Air is drawn from the outdoor environment through a vent, and passed into the heat exchanger which is indoor. The air gets cool with the effect of the refrigerant, and it is released into the buildings/

Kinds of HVAC Systems

There are various kinds of HVAC systems. These HVAC systems functions in similar ways, with a few differences. They are classified into four major types: Duct Free (Mini-Split) System These types of HVAC systems are single units, which are often installed on walls of rooms. They are an excellent option for individuals who do not want rooms with ducted heating systems, and are easily installed. They are known as mini-split because, they are usually mounted inside the rooms, and then attached to their compressors which are kept outside. These systems are also suitable for buildings with several rooms, where each individual in a room desires to control the temperature of their room.

Examples are hotels and apartments, whereby the different occupants, would desire to have different temperature in the various rooms. Although these systems have various advantages, it is very expensive in terms of repairs and maintenance. Also, the system requires a thorough cleaning from time to time. Split Systems These air conditioning and heating split systems are very common.

They are mostly used in various buildings. It has two major units; the cooling and the heating units. The cooling unit (air conditioner) having a refrigerant, is usually situated outside the buildings. Whereas, the heating system (furnace) which has a fan that blows hot air, is situated inside the buildings. These traditional HVAC systems are very efficiently, and also has some added properties.

These special properties includes cleaners, humidifiers, and purifiers. With these systems, the cool air or heated air is distributed through ducts. Hybrid Split Systems The hybrid split systems are quite similar similar to the split systems, as they use ductwork for distributing air. They are very efficient, and the air temperature can be easily regulated with the thermostat.

They are quite cheaper as they reduces the cost of energy, using their hybrid system. Also, they are capable of switching between gas and electric power. Packaged Heating and Air The packaged heating and air systems has an air conditioner unit and a heating unit, contained indoors. They are quite portable and can be kept in small spaces. The temperature of the air can be regulated with the system\'s thermostat. These systems are easily maintained, and have other added accessories for improving the air quality. These accessories includes cleaners, air purifiers, and UV lamps.

Criteria for Choosing HVAC Systems

In choosing a suitable HVAC system to be installed, three major factors are often considered. These factors are always the first things thought about, they include; the structure of the building, the climatic condition of the place, and the desires of the users. However, there are other more important criteria to be considered, for choosing the perfect HVAC systems. These criteria includes; the efficiency of the system, the cost of purchase and installation, cost of operation and maintenance, etc.

The efficiency of the HVAC systems depends on the air heating and cooling capacity of the system. The heating capacity and cooling capacity is to be considered since it is needed for various purpose. In cases whereby the heating unit and cooling unit is independently needed at all times, it is important to choose a more efficient HVAC system.

Also, the efficiency of the system depends on its ability to circulate quality air, and control the humidity. It is important to note that, in choosing the HVAC system based on the system\'s efficiency, is further dependent on the use of the system. The cost of purchase and installation is very essential, as one can only purchase based on budgets.

Some HVAC systems are very expensive, and that is quite understandable as they offer high quality services. However, there are other systems that are less expensive, which also provides quality services. Furthermore, the cost of operation and maintenance is to be considered, as most systems has a higher cost of operation and maintenance, while some others cost less. All these criteria, alongside other miscellaneous factors, are to be considered in other to choose the right HVAC systems.

This enables you get the system that suits your desires and work.\nHVAC TECHNICIANS The HVAC technicians are individuals who are trained to be highly skilled professionals. These professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems. Most industries are in constant need of these HVAC technicians. The HVAC technicians are the best personnels to contact with everything that has to deal with the technical aspect of the HVAC systems, as the are more experienced.

How to be a Certified HVAC Technician There are no exact means or path for being a certified HVAC technician. However, it is important for people who wants to be certified, to have at least a high school diploma. These aspirants should also have a basic knowledge in physical sciences, and be grounded in the practicals as well. Furthermore, these aspirants may apply for an accredited HVAC programs, where they would have to study the practically and theoretical aspects of various courses.

These courses may include; the HVAC energy management, refrigeration, calculations, piping systems, conditioning, air quality, and a lot more. After completing these programs, theses technicians can start working as interns to gain a more practical knowledge of how things are done in the HVAC system. Other professional certificates can be undertaken to gain more knowledge.

HVAC Technical School Programs The HVAC programs generally train students on how to design, install, and repair the HVAC systems. It also teaches them the various types of systems and their energy source. Nowadays, before technicians are hired, they are expected to prove that they are certified, and have graduated from an accredited HVAC programs.

This can be done by presenting a certificate from a certified college, stating that you have graduated from a certified program. In becoming a certified HVAC technician, there are three major programs to be chosen from, and they include; the certificate program, career diploma, and associate degree. These programs varies, with their various advantages. The certificate programs are quite shorter in terms of the time of completion, and they are less expensive. The career diploma programs are more expensive than the certificate programs, and they offer a more deeper study on the HVAC systems.

However, the associate degree is the highest of them all, as they are more intensive and can be very expensive. These programs can be accessed both online and offline. Examples of some schools that offer these programs includes: Penn Foster College, Ferris State University, Ashworth College, Air Conditioning Contractors of America, University of Central Florida, etc.\nConsiderations When Looking for an HVAC School In choosing a scale to udertake a HVAC program, it is very important to consider the following

The accreditation status of the school, and if they offer an accredited HVAC program. This accreditation is provided once the school and the program has been approved, after it has met certain academic criteria. This is an.important aspect because most companies only employ certified technicians who had graduated from an accredited HVAC program. The certification and licence provided by the schools. This is also important, as most jobs needs only technicians who are licensed. Most times, high paying industrial jobs do not even consider technicians who do not have a license.

The balance between the theoretical and practical study in the school. It is important to choose a school that do not only teach the theoretical aspects of the HVAC programs, but the practical aspects too. Without a proper practical knowledge, a technicians won\'t be properly grounded in this field of technical study. Hence, it is important to enquire about the kind of apparatus the school has for teaching students. Also find out about how often practicals are done, and how much the lab instructors are exposed to HVAC systems.

Can HVAC Courses Be Taken On Scholarship Have you ever yearned to apply for HVAC program, but don\'t have the financial means to get into school? There are several scholarships that sponsors you to take up HVAC programs. Some HVAC program scholarships available for this year 2020 includes: The Clifford H. "Ted" Rees, Jr. Scholarship Foundation (SkillsUSA Scholarship). It is offered to SkillsUSA students who are taking up HVAC programs.

Each qualified candidates are offered an amount of up to $2,500, and the scholarship deadline is 15th May, 2020. The Rees Scholarship Foundation, for candidates who have enrolled for an accredited HVAC program. Those who are qualified for this scholarship are offered an amount of up to $2,500. The application deadline for the spring semester is 1st of June, 2020. Whereas, the deadline for the fall semester is 1st of October, 2020. The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers- ASHRAE Society Scholarship that offers to sponsor the HVAC programs of candidates with up to $10,000.

These candidates must first meet up to some certain criteria set by the society. The deadline is 1st of May 2020 for the spring semester, and 1st December for the fall semester. The PTAC Crew Scholarship for qualified candidates studying HVAC trade at a qualified institution. This scholarship offers $1,500 to these candidates.

Summary

 The Heating, Ventilator, and Air conditioning systems have been very beneficial over the years, by providing three major services. The processes involved in the HVAC systems heating air, cooling air, and providing quality air, are quite simple and effective. With the various types of HVAC systems and their various advantages, one can now easily choose the HVAC system that is best suitable, based on the size of the building, the source of energy of the system, the cost of operation, and a lot more.

Finally, the HVAC systems can be easily repaired with the many technicians around. If you have also wished to take up the HVAC programs to be a certified the technician, you can easily enroll soon. You also have the choice of taking an offline class or an online careers\n

References 

  1. https://onlineschoolscenter.com/online-schools-hvac-tech-programs https://hvacclasses.org/careers
  2. https://hvacclasses.org/blog/how-to-become-hvac-technician
  3. https://hvacschool.org/degrees
  4. https://accreditedschoolsonline.org/vocational-trade-school/hvac-training/
  5. https://interstateheatandair.com/a-brief-history-of-the-hvac/
  6. https://servicechampions.net/blog/what-are-the-different-types-of-ac-heating-systems/
  7. https://generalac.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-hvac-units/ www.intechopen.com/books/hvac-system/types-of-hvac-systems
  8. https://renovateamerica.com/blog/how-do-hvac-systems-work https://hunker.com/12174375/how-does-a-hvac-system-work
  9. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heating,_ventilation,_and_air_conditioning https://www.petro.com/resource-center/what-is-hvac
  10. https://hvactraining101.com/what-does-hvac-mean/

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What Does HVAC Stand For?. (2021, Oct 31). Retrieved from http://envrexperts.com/free-essays/essay-about-what-does-hvac-stand

What Does HVAC Stand For?
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