Understanding HVAC Systems
HVAC stands for heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems. Various HVAC systems are used for air conditioning homes to large industrial complexes, shopping malls, and apartment blocks. These are designed using the principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
Heaters and air coolers commonly used in houses and apartments are called a single-stage system. There are also multi-stages systems, in which a single system can both heat and cool the environment based on the requirement. Zoned systems are another variety, which is especially beneficial for huge properties. Inside the vents and ductwork of these HVAC systems, there will be zone valves and dampers which selectively manage the flow of air. This helps in conditioning the air in a specific zone, preventing the system from heating or cooling the areas which are not in use.
HVAC systems can be broadly classified into 3:
- Split and Window
- Packaged Heating and Air Conditioning
- Central
Split and Window AC systems are seen in homes or small commercial buildings. It includes an outdoor unit with a condenser coil, compressor, electrical components, a fan, and refrigerant. The warm and cold air is transferred through the refrigerant line and cool air is passed through ducts to different parts of the room. There will be a thermostat which measures and maintains the desired temperature within the interiors.
The Packaged Heating and Air Conditioning system is a single hybrid unit which can both heat and cool the air according to the set temperatures. An electricity-powered heat pump in combination with a furnace that burns natural gas, propane, or fuel oil, helps in heating the air when the room temperature falls low.
Central Air Conditioning system comes in both the above forms. These systems function similar to a Split AC, with several outdoor units, ducts, and thermostats for conditioning larger areas.
Amphenol ICC’s MRD series circular locking connectors and FLH Series 2.50mm are largely used in different types of HVAC systems. We are looking forward to developing other innovative solutions to support these applications.