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What Is The Difference Between HVAC And AC?

Palm Air AC|08 March 2016

HVAC and AC are two terms that are regularly heard of but few actually know the difference between the two. While they are similar in some aspects and are often used interchangeably, HVAC and AC are two separate things. HVAC encompasses heating, ventilation, and air conditioning while AC stands for just the air conditioning portion.

History of Air Conditioning

Air conditioners have come a long way from their meager beginnings of utilizing blocks of ice to complicated units attached to programmable thermostats. The modern air conditioning system was actually invented in 1902 by a young engineer named Willis Carrier who was looking for a way to control the humidity level of a printing plant that he worked in. While it wasn’t originally designed for human comfort, ACs have become an important part of most American’s daily lives.

Heating and Ventilation

While we may not hear much about heating here in Boca Raton, Florida, it is still necessary to help us through those few cold days each winter. Ventilation is needed in houses in order to remove stale indoor air and moisture trapped inside. Ventilation also provides fresh air from outside to help indoor air quality inside. Keeping up with air duct cleaning and replacement is key to efficient ventilation in the home.

Types of Air Conditioners

While you may know what air conditioning is, besides a lifesaver on hot days, many do not know that there are different types or options to choosing an air conditioner.

• Window Air Conditioners – These types of ACs are typically used to cool single rooms. They are fairly easy to install and can be removed and moved to another location if needed. While they are fairly inexpensive compared to other types of air conditioners, they are rather loud and some people see them as an eyesore.
• Central Air Conditioners – One of the most common types of ACs, central air conditioners are often part of an HVAC system. They are found in both residential and commercial structures. Central air conditioners generally come with a large price tag, but they are more energy efficient and quieter than window units.
• Ductless and Split Systems – There are two parts that make up ductless and split AC units: the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. The outdoor unit consists of a condenser, compressor and expansion valve while the indoor unit has the cooling fan and evaporator coil. These types of AC units don’t take up much space and are generally less of an eyesore than their window unit counterparts.

Schedule HVAC Service In South Florida With Palm Air AC

With the many different types of air conditioners and HVAC systems out, it can be more than a little frustrating trying to figure out which one is best for your specific situation. Thankfully, the HVAC experts at Palm Air AC are here to help you. Contact Palm Air AC, who proudly serve the Boca Raton area, as well as Broward and Palm Beach counties.