Types of HVAC Systems

There are several types of HVAC systems, including:

Forced air systems – These systems use air ducts to distribute warm or cool air throughout the building.
Boiler systems – These systems use hot water or steam to heat the building.
Chilled water systems – These systems use chilled water to cool the building.
Radiant heating systems – These systems heat the building by radiating heat from warm surfaces, such as hot water pipes or electric coils.
Geothermal systems – These systems use the earth’s constant temperature to heat and cool the building.
Split systems – These systems have an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, the outdoor unit contains the condenser and compressor, and the indoor unit contains the evaporator.
Ductless Mini-Split systems – These systems are similar to split systems, but they do not require ductwork to distribute the air.
Package systems – These systems have all the components of the HVAC system in one self-contained unit, typically installed outside the building.

Each system has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for a particular building depends on factors such as the size of the building, the climate, and the specific needs of the occupants.

Multizone HVAC Air Handler

A multi-zone HVAC air handler is a type of air handling unit that is designed to control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in multiple zones or areas within a building. This is achieved by dividing the building into separate zones, each with its own thermostat and air handling unit.

The multi-zone air handler is typically connected to a central HVAC system and is responsible for distributing and controlling the flow of air to each zone. This allows for more precise and efficient temperature control, as well as improved energy efficiency, as the system can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of each zone.

Multi-zone air handlers usually come in different types such as a ducted or ductless mini-split systems. Ducted systems are typically more efficient and cost-effective but require more installation space and can be more complex to install. Ductless systems, on the other hand, are more flexible and can be used in retrofit applications but are on average more expensive to purchase and install.

Multi-zone air handlers can be used in a variety of settings, including commercial buildings, hotels, and large residential properties. They are particularly useful in buildings with varying heating and cooling needs, such as buildings with multiple levels or large open spaces.

VAV Air Handlers

VAV (Variable Air Volume) air handlers are a type of HVAC system that are used to control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in a building. They are designed to provide precise control of the airflow and temperature within a building by adjusting the volume of air that is distributed to each zone.

VAV air handlers typically consist of a central air handling unit that is connected to a network of ducts and air terminals. The air handling unit is responsible for filtering, heating, cooling, and distributing the air throughout the building. Each air terminal, or VAV box, is connected to a thermostat and is responsible for adjusting the volume of air that is supplied to the corresponding zone.

The VAV air handlers are particularly useful in large commercial buildings and other facilities where there are varying heating and cooling needs. They are also commonly used in buildings with multiple levels or large open spaces, as they can provide precise temperature control to each zone.

One of the main advantages of VAV air handlers is their energy efficiency. By adjusting the volume of air supplied to each zone based on demand, VAV systems can reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs and improve indoor air quality. They also allow for better temperature control and can help to reduce drafts and hot/cold spots within the building.

Constant Volume Air Handler

A constant volume air handler is a type of HVAC system that is designed to maintain a constant volume of air flow throughout a building. This is achieved by using a central air handling unit that is connected to a network of ducts and air terminals. The air handling unit is responsible for filtering, heating, cooling, and distributing the air throughout the building.

The air flow rate in a constant volume air handling system is fixed and does not change, regardless of the varying heating and cooling needs of the building. This is achieved by using a constant speed fan and a fixed damper to control the amount of air that is supplied to each zone. The constant speed fan is used to maintain the constant airflow, while the damper is used to control the amount of air that is supplied to the zone.

Constant volume air handlers are typically used in commercial buildings and other facilities where there are no or minimal changes in the heating and cooling loads. They are also commonly used in buildings with a relatively constant occupancy and similar heating and cooling needs.

One of the main advantages of constant volume air handlers is that they are relatively simple and easy to maintain. They are also relatively inexpensive to install and operate. However, one of the main disadvantages of constant volume air handlers is that they are not as energy efficient as other types of HVAC systems, as they are not able to adjust the airflow based on the changing heating and cooling needs of the building.

Hot Deck Cold Deck Air Handler

A hot deck/cold deck air handler is a type of HVAC system that uses two separate air handlers to control the temperature and humidity of the air in a building or facility. The term “hot deck” and “cold deck” refer to the location of the coils in the air handlers.

In a hot deck air handler, the coils are located in the air stream, where they heat the air before it is circulated throughout the building. In a cold deck air handler, the coils are located outside of the air stream, where they cool the air before it is circulated.

The two air handlers work together to provide a more efficient and effective way of controlling the temperature and humidity of the air in the building. The hot deck air handler is typically used during the heating season, while the cold deck air handler is used during the cooling season. The system can also include a dehumidifier and humidifier to control the humidity levels in the building.

Hot deck/cold deck air handlers are commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings, such as office buildings, schools, and hospitals. They are more efficient than traditional HVAC systems and can help to reduce energy costs. They also have the ability to control the temperature and humidity within the building to a more precise level.

DX Cooling

DX cooling is a type of air conditioning system that uses direct expansion (DX) technology to cool the air. The term “DX” refers to the fact that the refrigerant is directly expanded into a vapor within the air conditioning unit, rather than being cooled in a separate heat exchanger.

DX cooling systems are typically composed of two main components: an outdoor unit that contains the compressor and condenser, and an indoor unit that contains the evaporator. The refrigerant is circulated between the two units, where it is compressed and expanded to transfer heat from the indoor air to the outdoor air.

DX cooling systems are commonly used in residential and commercial buildings and are known for their energy efficiency and flexibility. They can be used in a variety of settings, including single-family homes, apartments, and office buildings.

One of the main advantages of DX cooling systems is that they are relatively small and easy to install. They also offer a high coefficient of performance (COP), which means that they are able to transfer more heat per unit of energy consumed. Additionally, they are relatively simple and easy to maintain, and they can be easily integrated with other HVAC components, such as air handlers and ductwork.

DX cooling systems are also available in single or multi-split systems, where single split systems have one indoor unit connected to one outdoor unit and multi-split systems have multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor unit. This allows for flexibility in zoning and temperature control.

Chilled Water Cooling

Chilled water cooling is a type of air conditioning system that uses cooled water to transfer heat from the air inside a building to the air outside. The system consists of a chiller unit, which uses a refrigeration cycle to cool water, and a network of pipes and coils that circulate the chilled water throughout the building.

The chilled water is circulated through a series of coils or heat exchangers, called air handlers, located in the building’s HVAC system. The air handlers blow air over the coils, transferring the heat from the indoor air to the chilled water. This cooled air is then distributed throughout the building using ductwork or other air distribution systems.

Chilled water cooling systems are commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings, such as office buildings, hospitals, and schools, as well as large scale air conditioning systems.

One of the main advantages of chilled water cooling systems is their energy efficiency. The chilled water can be stored in a thermal storage tank and reused during off-peak hours, which can reduce energy consumption and operating costs. They also have the ability to provide precise temperature control and can handle large cooling loads.

Chilled water cooling systems can also be integrated with other building systems such as radiant floor heating, hot water heating and process cooling. These systems can be either centralized or decentralized, where centralized systems have a single chiller plant serving multiple buildings or spaces and decentralized systems have a chiller unit located in each building or space.

VRF HVAC System

A VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) HVAC system is a type of air conditioning system that uses a variable refrigerant flow control to provide efficient heating and cooling to multiple zones within a building. It uses a single outdoor unit, called a condensing unit, which is connected to multiple indoor units, called air handlers. Each indoor unit is connected to its own thermostat, allowing for precise temperature control in each zone.

The VRF system uses a refrigerant, such as R-410A, to transfer heat between the indoor and outdoor units. The refrigerant is circulated through the system using a compressor and an expansion valve, which allows for precise control of the refrigerant flow and the temperature of the air in each zone.

One of the main advantages of VRF systems is their high energy efficiency and flexibility. They can provide heating and cooling simultaneously, and are able to adjust the flow of refrigerant to each zone based on the heating and cooling needs of that zone, which results in lower energy consumption and operating costs. They also have the ability to provide precise temperature control and can handle large cooling loads.

VRF systems are commonly used in commercial buildings, such as office buildings, hotels, and apartment buildings, as well as in residential buildings. VRF systems are also available in both ducted and ductless options, where the ducted system uses air ducts to distribute the air and the ductless system uses small, individual air handlers that are mounted directly in the rooms.

Hot Water Heating Boiler

A hot water heating boiler is a device that heats water and circulates it through a system of pipes and radiators or other heat exchangers in order to provide heat to a building or facility. The water is typically heated by burning fuel, such as natural gas or oil, but can also be heated by electricity or through the use of a heat exchanger connected to a central heating system. Hot water boilers can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, apartment buildings, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. They are typically used to provide heat for space heating and hot water.

Steam Heating Boiler

A steam heating boiler is a device that generates steam, which is then circulated through a system of pipes and radiators or other heat exchangers in order to provide heat to a building or facility. The steam is typically generated by burning fuel, such as natural gas or oil, but can also be generated by electricity. Steam boilers can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, apartment buildings, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. They are typically used to provide heat for space heating and can also be used to provide heat for process heating and power generation. Steam boilers have a higher pressure than hot water boilers, typically around 15-20 psi, and require a different type of system to distribute the steam.

HVAC Split System

A HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) split system is a type of HVAC system that separates the indoor and outdoor components of the system. The indoor unit, also known as the evaporator unit, is typically located inside the building, while the outdoor unit, also known as the condenser unit, is located outside. The two units are connected by refrigerant lines, which carry the refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coils. This allows the system to transfer heat between the indoor and outdoor units, either cooling or heating the indoor air.

The split system is designed for residential or commercial use, and it is one of the most common HVAC systems. The indoor unit can be a furnace, an air handler, or a packaged unit that includes both furnace and air conditioner. The outdoor unit can be an air conditioner or heat pump. It is easy to install, maintain and provides efficient heating and cooling.

HVAC Packaged Roof Top Unit

A HVAC packaged roof top unit (RTU) is a type of HVAC system that combines the functions of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning into a single unit. This unit is typically installed on the roof of a building and is designed for commercial and industrial use.

The RTU typically includes a compressor, evaporator coil, condenser coil, and other necessary components, all housed within a single cabinet. The unit can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. It can be used for both heating and cooling and can also include options such as air filtration and humidification.

The packaged roof top unit is a convenient solution for commercial buildings with limited space or those that don’t have a basement or attic. It is easy to install and maintain and it provides efficient heating and cooling. The unit is placed on the roof, which reduces the noise level inside the building, and also eliminates the need for indoor equipment.

Computer Room Dehumidification

Computer room dehumidification HVAC is a type of HVAC system that is specifically designed to control the humidity levels in a computer room or data center. High humidity levels in these environments can cause damage to electronic equipment, as well as create an uncomfortable work environment for staff.

The system typically includes a dehumidifier, which works by pulling in warm, humid air and passing it through a cooled coil. As the air cools, the humidity condenses and is removed from the air. The dehumidified air is then circulated back into the room, while the collected moisture is drained away. The system can also include a humidifier to add moisture back into the air when the humidity levels are too low.

Computer room dehumidification HVAC systems are designed to operate in a specific humidity range, which is usually between 40-60% relative humidity. They can be integrated with the existing HVAC system or function as a standalone unit. The system can be controlled by a building management system or a programmable thermostat.

These systems are critical for protecting electronic equipment from damage and preventing the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for the people working in the room.