Sunday, May 15, 2016

By Jason Bailey


Over the years, HVAC systems have remained relatively the same. What may have changed is the way they are controlled. Newer materials are also used nowadays, and this has improved their efficiency and cost. The thermostats used today are programmable, which means modern systems can be switched on and off automatically based on user preferences. Ductless systems have become increasingly popular over the years for a number of reasons.

Obviously, it is much cheaper to install a system that does not require any ductwork. This is because one major component of the system is eliminated. Designing the system is also much easier.

A duct-free cooling system, also known as a split AC system, has two components, the air handler and condenser. The former is installed inside the room on the wall or ceiling while the latter is installed outdoors, either on the roof, outer wall or on the ground. These components are connected by refrigerant tubing and electrical wires.

A split air conditioner cools a room when a compressed refrigerant expands in the evaporator coil. The expanding refrigerant absorbs heat from the surroundings and it's taken back to the condenser for cooling. When the refrigerant is compressed, it releases heat, which is carried away by cool air from the outdoor environment.

Electric space heaters are the best example of a heating system that is free of air ducts. In this type of heating, heat is produced when electric current passes through a high resistance heating element. A fan or blower is used to circulate heated air around the room. Another type of system that is void of air ducts is the hydronic heating system.

Many HVAC systems use air, but there is also a water-based system. It is known as hydronic heating and cooling. The system uses water or steam as a heat carrying medium instead of air. A boiler superheats water, or raises steam, which is pumped into metal pipes and taken to the baseboards and radiators mounted in different parts of the house. These heat exchangers extract heat energy from hot water or steam and radiates it to the air surrounding the radiator. Heat is evenly distributed to every corner of the house through convection. The system also has thermostats and valves mounted in different rooms to control the heating or cooling process. When the optimal temperature is exceeded, the thermostat sends a signal to the controller to turn off the hot water supply to the radiator to stop any further heating.

Window mounted air conditioners are also duct free because they do not have any type of ductwork. They are usually mounted on the window frame. The condenser unit is exposed to the outside while the air handler has contact with indoor air.

The key to having a properly functioning HVAC system lies in choosing the right installer. Another important factor is routine maintenance. Ideally, you should hire a reputable HVAC contractor to design, install and service your unit. The right firm should offer a convenient maintenance plan to ensure your heating and air conditioning system works well. With time, you should consider replacing the entire system.




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