Definitions

Below are some commonly used HVAC industry terms.

AFUE - Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. this term is used with any fossil fuel (gas or propane) type system on how effective it is at producing heat from the fuel it burns. A gas furnace with an 80 AFUE converts 80% of the heat from the fuel it is burning into usable heat while the rest goes out with the exhaust gasses.

Boiler - A piece of heating equipment designed to heat water for the purpose of heating a home or business. Boilers can be heated using natural gas, propane gas, or electricity.

BTU - British Thermal Unit. This is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) - CO is an odorless, colorless, and toxic gas. because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes, CA can kill you before you are aware it is in your home. Lower levels of CO can cause mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. Symptoms can include headache, disorientation, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue. The effects of CO poisoning can vary greatly for individuals depending on age, health, and the concentration and length of exposure.

At higher concentrations, CO poisoning can be fatal.

Ceiling Saver Safely Pan - An auxiliary drain pan installed under the air humidifier or furnace in case of an overflow from the primary condensation drain.

Compressor - The part of an air conditioning system that pumps refrigerant through the system by increasing the refrigerant pressure.

Flue Gasses - Bi-products of the combustion of fossil fuels used by heaters and furnaces. Incomplete combustion of these fuels can produce deadly Carbon Monoxide.

Humidification - The process of adding moisture to the air in your home or office.

SEER - Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This is the term used to identify how efficient an air conditioner is at using electricity. In 2006, a law was passed that required manufactures to only produce 13 SEER and above. 20+ SEER systems are available.