The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry is filled with acronyms, including its own name, which can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the terminology. Whether you’re trying to better understand and maintain your current system or purchase a new one, knowing HVAC acronyms will simplify any stage of ownership. This comprehensive list of HVAC acronyms not only provides easily understandable definitions but also serves as a guidebook. It highlights common scenarios where you may encounter these terms or need to be aware of them, especially when buying a new system. With a better grasp of HVAC acronyms, you’ll feel empowered to take control of your comfort and manage your heating and cooling needs with confidence.
AC
Air Conditioning: A type of HVAC system specifically designed to maintain a comfortable temperature by reducing the heat and humidity and circulating air of a designated temperature throughout a space.
When to use: You have likely heard and used this term many times to refer to a cooling system and can continue using it when discussing a new system or talking with your HVAC technician.
AFUE
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency: A measurement of thermal efficiency for combustion systems like furnaces and boilers.
When to use: When comparing systems, look for higher AFUE percentages, as they indicate more efficient fuel-to-heat conversion.
AHU
Air Handling Unit: A central unit used to circulate air throughout the building.
When to use: Understanding which unit is responsible for air distribution helps when selecting a system and for maintenance, especially if there are circulation concerns.
BAS
Building Automation System: A control center that uses smart technology to monitor indoor temperature via sensors placed throughout the building. It adjusts the temperature based on occupancy and outdoor climate, though it can also be manually controlled.
When to use: This term is typically used for larger buildings but may also apply to in-home smart systems.
BTU
British Thermal Unit: A measure of energy output in HVAC systems. BTU indicates the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
When to use: After your HVAC technician assesses your home or business’s needs, use the BTU rating to compare systems. Choosing the correct BTU is crucial for efficiency and system longevity.
COP
Coefficient of Performance: COP is one of a few ways that HVAC professionals gauge system efficiency because it measures heating output.
When to use: A higher COP value indicates a more efficient system, useful for comparing options before purchase.
DCV
Demand-Controlled Ventilation: A feature that adjusts the ventilation automatically based on factors such as occupancy and air quality.
When to use: Look for systems with DVC if ventilation is a priority for you.
DOE
Department of Energy: The U.S. government department responsible for developing and enforcing HVAC energy efficiency standards.
When to use: When researching systems, the DOE is a reliable source for information on energy-efficient systems.
DPT
Dew Point Temperature: The temperature at which dew forms from moisture-saturated air.
When to use: If you have any concerns about humidity, ask your HVAC tech to reassess your dehumidification needs based on the relative DPT of your home or business.
DX
Direct Expansion: An efficiency feature of a system that allows heat exchange to happen more directly by eliminating secondary circuits.
When to use: When comparing systems, this is another feature to look out for to improve efficiency.
EER
Energy Efficiency Ratio: EER is the ratio of an air conditioning system’s cooling capacity and efficiency.
When to use: EER is a key indicator of efficiency and system longevity. Systems with a high EER tend to be more durable.
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency: The EPA is a US government agency that regulates and enforces national efficiency standards.
When to use: An excellent resource for verifying system efficiency.
ERV
Energy Recovery Ventilator: A system feature that uses outgoing air to condition incoming air, minimizing energy loss during ventilation.
When to use: We suggest considering an ERV if you’re looking for an efficiency boost in your system.
EVAP
Evaporator Coil: A crucial component of your HVAC system that absorbs heat from outside or inside to heat and cool the building.
When to use: Your HVAC technician may refer to the EVAP during maintenance. If you notice debris or dust on your EVAP, inform your technician.
GSHP
Ground Source Heat Pump: Also known as a geothermal heat pump, it uses the earth’s consistent temperature to regulate indoor climate. Because geothermal heat pumps rely on the ground instead of fossil fuels, GSHPs are considered the highest-efficiency HVAC system.
When to use: You may find this term when researching heat pumps for your home or business.
HRV
Heat Recovery Ventilator: Like ERVs, HRVs transfer temperature from exhaust air to incoming fresh air during ventilation. However, HRVs focus on effective heat transfer.
When to use: Look for this feature if you want to prioritize efficiency, specifically in winter.
HSPF
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF): This is a measurement used to identify heat pump efficiency. The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the heat pump system.
When to use: Look for high HSPF when comparing heat pump systems.
IAQ
Indoor Air Quality: Refers to the pollutants, allergens, and humidity that an HVAC system removes to improve occupant health and comfort.
When to use: IAQ is important when selecting systems and during discussions with your HVAC technician, especially regarding air quality tests and duct cleanings.
MERV
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV): This scale is used to determine the effectiveness of air filters in capturing airborne particles, such as dust and pollen. Higher MERV ratings can trap smaller particles.
When to use: Look for a MERV rating that suits the needs of your home or business. Not every scenario requires the top MERV rating, and an unneeded high rating can create unnecessary inconveniences.
R-22
Freon Refrigerant: R-22, also known as Freon, is a type of refrigerant that is no longer used for environmental reasons.
When to use: You may encounter R-22 when buying a home with an older HVAC system.
SEER
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio: A measurement similar to EER but applied to all HVAC systems. Higher SEER ratings indicate better efficiency.
When to use: SEER measurements are a helpful tool for comparing systems before purchase.
SMART THERMOSTAT
Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology: an advanced device designed to control your home’s heating and cooling system from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. These thermostats often include features like programmable schedules, adaptive learning based on your habits, energy consumption tracking, and compatibility with other smart home systems. By adjusting temperature settings according to factors like occupancy, time of day, and weather, smart thermostats boost energy efficiency, lower utility costs, and enhance comfort.
VAV
Variable Air Volume: A type of system that can change airflow to different areas of a building based on the needed demand instead of consistent airflow regardless of varied indoor conditions.
When to use: Choose a VAV system for enhanced comfort and energy efficiency.
VRF
Variable Refrigerant Flow: Heat pump systems use refrigerant, and VRF increases the precision of temperature control and improves energy efficiency by adjusting the refrigerant flow to different indoor air handlers based on their individual settings.
When to use: Consider VRF systems if you have multiple indoor units and want to maximize efficiency.
If you are looking for expert advice about your HVAC options in New England, contact the National Refrigeration team, and we will find the right solution for you.
Whether you need 24-7 emergency service or advice on improving your everyday air quality and comfort—at home and work—call us at 401-737-2000 or email us.