Understanding your home's HVAC system can save you time, money, and frustration—especially when issues arise or it's time for maintenance. As a trusted HVAC company in Knoxville, we believe homeowners should feel confident when talking about their heating and cooling systems. That starts with knowing some of the most common HVAC terms and what they mean for your comfort and energy efficiency.
HVAC - Let's start with the basics! HVAC is an acronym for Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning. It is a catch-all term for any system that moves air from indoors to outdoors and vice versa, including all heating and cooling systems in residential and commercial properties. HVAC systems rely on the core principles of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics to regulate indoor temperatures, ensuring spaces stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer—delivering the comfort homeowners expect year-round.
Dehumidifier - A dehumidifier is a device that helps reduce humidity levels by extracting excess moisture from the air, helping to prevent mold growth, mildew, condensation, and unpleasant musty smells in your home. An HVAC company in Knoxville can install a dehumidifier in your HVAC system. It will pull air over cold coils, causing the water vapor to condense before pushing the air back out and collecting the moisture in a drip tray.
Heat Exchanger - The heat exchanger is the part of your HVAC system that transfers thermal energy. In HVAC systems, the two main types of heat exchangers are the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. Each serves a crucial function in the heating and cooling process, working together to regulate indoor temperatures and maintain year-round comfort.
SEER - Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, is a rating that will indicate how efficiently your HVAC system is working. The rating is determined by ividing the total cooling output by the energy consumed during the warmer months of the year. A high SEER rating means a more efficient HVAC system which can help cut the costs of your utility bills. This is something that many homeowners prioritize when installing new HVAC, so be sure to ask your local HVAC company in Knoxville about the SEER ratings on the units they recommend.
Indoor Air Quality - When there is a high level of pollution in your environment, including contaminants from pets, chemicals, and other sources, it can negatively impact the quality of the air you breathe. In order to maintain good indoor air quality, you must have appropriate ventilation, change your air filters regularly, and have regular HVAC maintenance visits from a local HVAC company in Knoxville.
Split System - A split system refers to an HVAC setup that includes both an indoor and an outdoor unit, linked together by copper refrigerant lines to provide efficient heating and cooling.
Ventilation - The V in HVAC stands for ventilation, essential for maintaining air circulation around your home. The Ventilator component can remove unpleasant smells and excessive moisture while replacing the stale air in your space with fresh air from outdoors.
Heat Pump - A heat pump is a flexible, all-in-one system that delivers both heating and cooling, making it an efficient solution for year-round indoor comfort. Instead of generating heat, it transfers heat—pulling it from the outside air (even in cold weather!), bringing it inside during winter, and doing the reverse in summer. Heat pumps are perfect for moderate climates and are one of the most energy efficient HVAC options you can choose.
Ductwork - Ductwork is the system of air ducts that transports heated or cooled air from your HVAC unit to various rooms throughout your home, ensuring consistent temperature control in every space. Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can waste energy, reduce comfort, and raise your utility bills. Regular maintenance helps keep your airflow efficient and clean.
Compressor - The compressor is often called the heart of your HVAC system—especially in air conditioners and heat pumps. It's located in the outdoor unit and compresses the refrigerant, which increases its temperature and pressure, helping it move heat in or out of your home depending on the season.
Thermostat - The thermostat is the control center of your HVAC system. It lets you set your desired temperature and can turn the system on or off to maintain that setting. Many homes now have smart thermostats, which can be controlled remotely, and learn your preferences over time to optimize energy use.
Having a basic understanding of your HVAC system helps you make smarter decisions about maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. Knowing these key terms is a great place to start, whether you're installing a new heat pump or just adjusting your thermostat. If you have questions or need expert service, our HVAC company in Knoxville is here to help at any time of the year.
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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.
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