What is the first thing that you think of when you think about a winter’s day? It’s a welcome thought in the dead of Texas summers. Some of us probably think about the coziness of hot cocoa or a nice warm home that rescues us from the chilly temperatures. There are literally a million and one things that people can think about when it comes to cold weather.

 

However, what is your escape when the weather is far beyond heating up and taking no prisoners? That, my friend, is when you need as much help as you can get.

 

When your home’s HVAC system is properly working, it can be a year-long companion that helps you through any season. But to get the full benefits out of your HVAC, you have to understand how it works and how it can keep you safe.

 

What Does HVAC Mean?

 

Let’s start from the top. The term “HVAC” is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. These are the three important tasks that keep your home regulated, temperature-controlled, and maintaining good air quality.

 

While HVAC equipment can vary depending on where you live, a central air/furnace combo is normal for many.

 

Note: In warmer climates, there might be heat pumps/air handlers and packaged units.

 

 

Different Types of Central HVAC Equipment

 

Often when people hear about HVAC systems, they don’t usually know what the basic components are that make the system so effective. While you might just say, “isn’t it just heating and cooling?” (which we suppose is not the worst answer we’ve heard). There is more that you need to know. In a typical HVAC system, you have your:

 

• Gas Furnace
• Heat Pump
• Packaged Unit (an all-in-one a/c and furnace unit)
• Air Conditioner
• Air-Handler

 

Every piece works together for the benefit of your home. One part is not more valuable than the other, even though there are scammers (believe it or not) that will try to convince you otherwise and ruin a perfectly working system.

 

The supply air ducts help run from the blower (inside a centrally located furnace or air handler), which terminates at individual areas throughout the home. The return ducts balance the system with strategically placed vents that feed into the furnace or air handler where the unconditioned air is “re-conditioned” and circulated all over again.

 

In a system this sophisticated, just one small kink in the chain could create a mess of a situation.

 

This is more than just an air condition unit, and if anyone tries to sell you anything claiming that it is just as efficient as your HVAC, don’t believe them. HVAC allows for an accelerated exchange rate of filtered air that conditions and cleans the air in your home. It is not just beneficial for your home; it’s good for you too.

 

If you have questions about your HVAC equipment, how you can make the most out of it, or how to properly upkeep it, we’ll be there ASAP!