Some Useful HVAC Definitions

Here in Rochester Michigan, the technicians at Eller Services may use some terms or phrases that are unfamiliar too you. Here are the definitions of some commonly used terms in the HVAC industry that may come in handy in the conversation with us about your system.

Air Handler
The indoor component of your air conditioner or heating system that moves air through your home.

BTU
British Thermal Unit. In scientific terms, it represents the amount of energy required to raise one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. One BTU is the equivalent of the heat given off by a single wooden kitchen match.

Condenser
The part of your air condtioner used for changing a gas into a liquid.

Compressor
Part of the outdoor component to your air conditioning unit that pumps refrigerant. Works to maintain the pressure in your HVAC system to provide adequate cooling to your home.

Energy Star®
A Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program designed to reduce the nation’s energy consumption. ENERGY STAR® -qualified heating equipment can be up to 15 percent more efficient than standard models. ENERGY STAR® -qualified cooling equipment can be up to 7 percent more efficient than minimum-standard equipment.

HVAC
Stands for Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning. It is the general term for any residential or commercial comfort systems, this includes humidifiers, air cleaners etc.

MERV Rating
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is a standard that rates the overall effectiveness of air filters. Higher value MERV rating equates to finer filtration, meaning fewer dust particles and other airborne contaminants can pass through the filter.


NATE
North American Technician Excellence. This is the nationwide certification program for home heating and cooling technicians. It’s the only certification that is recognized by the entire industry.

Seer Rating
This calculation is the efficiency rating used for central A/C systems as an average over the entire cooling season.
The SEER rating of a unit is the cooling output during a typical cooling-season divided by the total electric energy input during the same period. The higher the unit’s SEER rating the more energy efficient it is. In the U.S., the SEER is the ratio of cooling in British thermal unit (BTU) to the energy consumed in watt-hours. The coefficient of performance (COP), a more universal unit-less measure of efficiency, is discussed in the following section. (wikipedia definition).

We proudly serve Rochester, Rochester Hills, Troy, Utica and all the surrounding communities. Check our service area page for more information or call our office if you are unsure if you are covered by us.