HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. AC, on the other hand, is just Air Conditioning. So, HVAC refers to the complete system that heats and cools the air, while AC is just the component that cools the surrounding temperature. A furnace would be an example of a heating component that is often used in conjunction with an AC unit.

All those terms aside, you may need to know more about their technical side to get a glimpse of their proper maintenance. In such a case, below are just a few more pointers that may help you along the way.

The Difference between Their Components

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It is a system that regulates the heat and air conditioning inside a building. On the other hand, the air conditioner is the part of the HVAC system that regulates the air in some parts of the indoor structure. It is primarily used to cool everything down.

People tend to get confused with the term “HVAC system,” as it usually refers to a heat pump or furnace. It is often easier to just say HVAC system, but it is not always specific enough. You do not need an HVAC system if you already have an air conditioner that you love but do not have reliable whole-home heating. Your HVAC system is just lacking the heating part. If your home needs a new heating and cooling system, then adding a furnace or heat pump would be a good idea. If you need a complete replacement or addition of both heating and cooling, then using the term HVAC system would be most appropriate.

The Difference between Their Function

An air conditioner is a machine that helps to cool the air inside a room or building by circulating and filtering the air and removing hot air from the outside. It consists of an evaporator, a condenser, and a duct system that helps to circulate the air.

The HVAC system is a set of electrical equipment that can heat, cool, ventilate, and air condition space. Some HVAC systems have been updated to where they can automatically sense changes in heat and weather and adjust the airflow and temperature accordingly. So, whenever we talk about an HVAC system, we’re referring to the entire system that regulates temperature and airflow.

In That Case, What Is a Heater?

A heating system is a vital part of a complete HVAC system. A central forced-air furnace is used in many homes with central heating and cooling. This type of furnace is common in areas with colder climates, like Washington. These homes’ furnaces and air conditioners usually share the same vents and filters. Other components, like fans, may also be shared between the two systems.

A heat pump is a system used to heat and cool a space. The heat pump is the system’s main component and is responsible for regulating the temperature. There are many different types of heat pumps, but the most common is the geothermal heat pump.

Conclusion

Overall, HVAC systems provide heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, whereas air conditioning systems provide cooling only. HVAC systems are typically more expensive to install and operate than air conditioning systems, but they offer a number of benefits that air conditioning systems cannot provide. HVAC systems are better suited for larger spaces and can provide heating and cooling. Air conditioning systems are better suited for smaller spaces and can only provide cooling.

If you are looking for a well-trusted HVAC company in Berkeley, CA, look no further than our expertise here at L.J. Kruse Co. We are a family owned and -operated plumbing, heating, and cooling company located in Berkeley, California, serving residential and commercial clients. Call us today and let us tend to your HVAC needs in no time!