No homeowner is expected to be an expert on their heating and air conditioning system, but it helps to know some basic components and terms when something isn’t working quite right. Study up on these terms to provide clarification when issues arise.
- Blower: Just like it sounds, this part blows hot or cold air (depending on if the heat or the A/C is running) through the duct system and into your home.
- Boiler: Also known as a water heater, the boiler is what keeps your water hot.
- Carbon monoxide detector: A device in your home that signals the presence of toxic gas in the air.
- Dehumidifier: An air cooler that removes moisture from the air.
- Duct: Generally made of sheet metal, ducts carry the hot or cool air into the home.
- HVAC: Abbreviation for heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
- Heating element: The device your system uses to transform electricity into heat.
- Heating system: Equipment used to provide heat to a home, using steam, gas, electricity or other fuel.
- Panels: These pieces of metal protect the furnace and boiler.
- Thermostat: Device in the home used to control the temperature and heat source.
Regardless of the type of heating system you have in your home, it will eventually require some sort of repair. Understanding more about your heating system will help you determine what is wrong and what you can do to potentially fix it.
