What is HVAC?
10th Grade · Career & Technical Education · 30 min· Refrigeration Basics
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Learning Objective
I can define HVAC and explain its basic functions.
- 1
Heat pumps function by moving heat from one place to another, and for every unit of energy put in, they can output 3 to 5 times as much heat, making them more efficient than traditional heating systems.
- 2
Air conditioners and heat pumps use a refrigerant to absorb and release heat; the refrigerant turns to gas as it collects thermal energy and liquefies as it releases heat.
- 3
Although heat pumps are climate-friendly, current drawbacks include the use of refrigerants like hydrofluorocarbons, which can have a significant global warming impact if leaked, and decreased efficiency in very cold temperatures.
