When you call Atlanta home, air conditioning is essential. Without it, those Southern summers—and often springs and falls—are unbearable.
Should you ever find yourself in need of heating and air repair in Atlanta, you want to be sure you understand the terms your technician uses. Not only does this ensure you are more informed, but it also makes it easier to get the service you need. To get you started, let’s compare two essential terms: HVAC vs. air conditioning.
HVAC or Just AC: What’s the Difference?
Many people think that HVAC and AC essentially stand for the same thing—your home’s cooling system. One just has a couple of extra letters. Right?
Not quite. Although many use these terms interchangeably, including some heating and air professionals in Atlanta, they refer to different things.
Understanding HVAC Units
HVAC is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. When your home has an HVAC system, it means that you have both heating and cooling units that temperature control your interiors and provide essential ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. The components of an HVAC unit can vary, depending on the type you have. Most include the following:
- Furnace
- Air conditioner
- Ducts
- Vents
- Filters
So what is the difference between HVAC and AC? It’s pretty simple: all HVAC systems will include air conditioning, but not all air conditioners are part of an HVAC system.
Understanding AC Units
An AC unit is the air conditioner for your home. It can be part of an integrated HVAC system or function all on its own. If deciding between HVAC and air conditioner alone, keep in mind that without the full system, you will still need to find ways to safely and effectively heat your home.
There are a few common types of air conditioning systems you can purchase for AC installation in Atlanta. These are:
- Window Units: These are small air conditioners fitted inside your windows. Generally speaking, they cool a single room and cannot integrate into an HVAC system.
- Central Units: These are larger air conditioners that are integrated into the HVAC system. When purchasing one, ensure it is rated for the square footage of your home.
- Mini-Splits: This type of air conditioner can be used as AC alone, or it can include a heating component. These are often installed when a home does not have ductwork for a traditional HVAC system.
Now that you know what the difference between HVAC and air conditioning is, you are better prepared for working with heating and cooling professionals. If you need help with heating and air in Roswell, turn to Moncrief. Call us at 404-350-2300 or get in touch using our contact page.