HVAC 101 for Dummies
Wait... That's How It Works?
Ever wondered what your A/C technician is talking about when they start using terms that sound like a whole different language? You’re not alone. Understanding your system shouldn’t be complicated—especially when it affects your comfort and your budget. In HVAC 101 for Dummies, we’ll walk you through the basics of an HVAC system in a simple, easy-to-understand way, giving you the confidence to know what’s going on in your home.
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning—the systems in your home that work together to keep you comfortable year-round. Heating keeps your home warm during cooler months, air conditioning removes heat to keep things cool, and ventilation helps circulate clean air by removing dust, humidity, and pollutants. An easy way to understand how HVAC works is to compare it to the human body. When everything is working together properly, your system runs smoothly—when one part struggles, the whole system can feel it. Your HVAC system has a heart, lungs, and even a brain—just not the way you’d expect. Below, you’ll find a simple breakdown of some common HVAC terms you may hear during a service call. Explore the HVAC terms below to get familiar with how your system works, and if you ever have questions, our team is always here to help.
Thermostat
An AC thermostat is the "brain" of your cooling system, acting as a temperature-sensing switch that tells your air conditioner when to turn on and off to keep your home at your desired "set point" temperature, working by sensing when the room gets too hot and signaling the AC to cool it down, then shutting off when it reaches the target, saving energy by preventing over-cooling.
Compressor
An A/C compressor is the "heart" of your air conditioner, acting like a pump that circulates refrigerant and squeezes it, turning a cool, low-pressure gas into a hot, high-pressure gas, allowing the system to absorb indoor heat and release it outside, making your home cool.
Evaporator Coil
An AC evaporator coil is the "lungs" inside your home that absorbs heat from indoor air, making it cold before blowing it back out, by using cold refrigerant that turns from liquid to gas as it soaks up warmth and humidity. Think of it as a sponge for heat: warm indoor air passes over its cold tubes, the refrigerant inside gets hot and turns into vapor, and the air comes out cool and dry.
Filter/Dryer
An AC filter/dryer is like your system's "kidney" and sponge: it filters out dirt/debris (the filter part) and absorbs moisture/acids (the dryer part) from the liquid refrigerant, preventing clogs and corrosion, ensuring your AC runs efficiently and avoids costly compressor damage
Drain Line
An AC drain line is a small pipe that acts like a tiny gutter, collecting and carrying away water (condensation) that your air conditioner removes from your home's air to dehumidify it, preventing water damage and mold by directing it outside or into a drain.
Call Mark Palmer Electric and Air—Your Trusted Air Conditioning Contractor
Serving The Heartland, FL, and surrounding areas, we’re ready to provide expert repairs, installations, and maintenance that keep your home or business cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient all year long. Contact Mark Palmer Electric and Air today at 863-402-0000 to make your next appointment today!
