HVAC systems, which stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, are essential when designing buildings to ensure indoor environments are comfortable, safe, and healthy.
These systems are designed to control temperature, humidity, air quality, and air movement within a building.
The primary goal of HVAC systems is to provide thermal comfort and maintain acceptable indoor air quality through sufficient ventilation and filtration. They achieve this by adjusting and changing the outdoor air conditions to the desired conditions inside the building.
The outdoor air is drawn into the building, heated or cooled as required, and then distributed into the occupied spaces. Finally, the air is extracted from the occupied space and heating and cooling energy recovered by a heat recovery system before being either exhausted to the ambient air or reused in the system. Various heat recovery systems exist and are required to be of at least a minimum efficiency to meet regulations.
HVAC systems consist of several key elements, including:
- a source for warm and cool air,
- a distribution system, and
- a control unit such as a thermostat.
The distribution system varies depending on the type of refrigerant and the method of delivery, which can include
- air handling units,
- fan coils,
- air ducts, and
- water pipes.
Central systems condition the entire building as a single unit, while decentralised systems condition specific zones within the building. The selection of an HVAC system depends on various factors, including the building configuration, climate conditions, and the owner's preferences.
In summary, HVAC systems are integral to modern building design, providing essential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning functions that ensure occupant comfort and well-being. By carefully selecting and designing these systems, building owners can achieve significant energy savings and contribute to a more sustainable environment.