SchoolTube Community
Have you ever been confused by the different types of HVAC systems available? From minisplits to air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces, there are many options to choose from. In this blog post, we will break down the differences between these systems and help you decide which one is right for your home.
Air Handler
An air handler is a component of a central air conditioning or heating system that moves air through the ducts and registers in your home. It does not produce heat or cool air on its own, but rather works in conjunction with a furnace or air conditioner to distribute conditioned air throughout your home.
Straight Air Conditioner
A straight air conditioner is a stand-alone unit that cools the air in your home. It does not have a heating function, so it is typically used in climates where the weather is warm all year round.
Straight Furnace (Oil, Gas, or Electric)
A straight furnace is a stand-alone unit that heats the air in your home. It does not have a cooling function, so it is typically used in climates where the weather is cold all year round.
Air Conditioner and Gas/Propane Furnace
This type of system combines an air conditioner and a gas or propane furnace into a single unit. The air conditioner cools the air in your home during the summer, while the furnace heats the air in your home during the winter.
Air Conditioner and Electric Furnace
This type of system combines an air conditioner and an electric furnace into a single unit. The air conditioner cools the air in your home during the summer, while the furnace heats the air in your home during the winter.
High Velocity Mini-Duct System
A high velocity mini-duct system is a type of HVAC system that uses small ducts to distribute conditioned air throughout your home. This type of system is often used in homes with limited space for traditional ductwork.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a type of HVAC system that does not require ducts. Instead, they use individual units that are mounted on the wall or ceiling to cool or heat a specific area of your home.
Floor Mounted A/C
Floor mounted A/C units are similar to ductless mini-splits, but they are installed on the floor instead of the wall or ceiling. They are often used in homes with limited space for traditional ductwork.
Heat Pump
A heat pump is a type of HVAC system that can both heat and cool your home. It works by transferring heat from one place to another, using a refrigerant. In the summer, the heat pump absorbs heat from the air inside your home and transfers it to the outside air. In the winter, the heat pump reverses the process, absorbing heat from the outside air and transferring it to the inside air.
Hybrid Split System
A hybrid split system is a type of HVAC system that combines a heat pump with a furnace or air conditioner. This type of system can provide both heating and cooling, and it is often more efficient than a traditional heat pump or air conditioner.
Packaged Units
Packaged units are a type of HVAC system that combines all of the components of a central air conditioning or heating system into a single unit. This type of system is often used in commercial buildings.
Rooftop Units
Rooftop units are a type of HVAC system that is installed on the roof of a building. This type of system is often used in commercial buildings.
Boiler
A boiler is a type of HVAC system that heats water and circulates it through radiators or baseboards to heat your home. Boilers are often used in older homes.
Radiant Floor or Hydronic Heating
Radiant floor or hydronic heating is a type of HVAC system that uses warm water to heat the floors of your home. This type of system is often used in luxury homes.
Geothermal Heat Pump
A geothermal heat pump is a type of HVAC system that uses the earth's natural heat to heat and cool your home. This type of system is very efficient, but it is also very expensive to install.
Conclusion
There are many different types of HVAC systems available, and the best one for your home will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you are not sure what type of system is right for you, it is a good idea to consult with a qualified HVAC contractor.