Major Hvac Systems and Equipment

Below is a comprehensive list of all the major HVAC system types and related equipment:

Air condition system on the building roof toop

The System Types include:

Air Distribution
Cooling
Heat Rejection
Cooling Pump
Heating
Heating Pump
Control
Miscellaneous

Equipment Details:
Air Distribution

Air handling unit, constant volume
Air handling unit, constant volume reheat
Air handling unit, dual duct
Air handling unit, multizone
Air handling unit, single zone
Air handling unit, variable air volume
Air handling unit, variable volume, variable temperature
Evaporative cooling unit, direct
Fan coil unit
Heating and ventilating system
Heat pump, air-to-air
Heat pump, water-to-air, geothermal application
Heat pump, water-source
Heat pump, water-to-water, geothermal application
Packaged DX unit, air-cooled
Packaged DX unit, rooftop
Packaged DX unit, water-cooled
Packaged terminal air conditioner/heat pump
Residential furn. and pkg’ed condensing unit/heat pump
Split DX system
Other air distribution equipment
Evaporative cooling unit, indirect

Cooling

Chiller, absorption, indirect-fired, dual-stage
Chiller, absorption, indirect-fired, single-stage
Chiller, air-cooled reciprocating
Chiller, air-cooled rotary (screw)
Chiller, centrifugal
Chiller, gas engine driven, centrifugal
Chiller, heat recovery, centrifugal
Chiller, water-cooled reciprocating
Chiller, water-cooled rotary (screw)
District cooling
Heat exchanger, horizontal ground
Heat exchanger, horizontal (trench) ground
Heat exchanger, ground water, aquifers
Heat exchanger, ground water, standing column well
Heat exchanger, potable water
Heat exchanger, vertical bore
Heat exchanger, surface water, closed loop
Heat exchanger, surface water, open loop
Heat exchanger, wastewater
Municipal water plant
Other cooling equipment
Chiller, absorption, direct-fired, dual-stage
Chiller, absorption, direct-fired, single-stage
Chiller, gas engine driven, rotary (screw)
Chiller, heat recovery, rotary (screw)

Heat Rejection

Condenser, air-cooled
Condenser, evaporative
Condenser, water-cooled
Cooler, closed circuit
Cooling tower, ceramic
Cooling tower, fiberglass
Cooling tower, metal
Cooling tower, wood
Heat exchanger, condenser water
Heat exchanger, water-to-water
Other heat rejection equipment

Cooling Pump

Centrifugal pump, close-coupled, end-suction
Centrifugal pump, frame-mounted, end-suction
Centrifugal pump, split-case, multistage pump
Centrifugal pump, split-case, single stage
Centrifugal pump, vertical in-line
Centrifugal pump, vertical turbine
Condensate pump
Other pump type

Heating

Boiler, cast iron
Boiler, electric hot water
Boiler, electric steam
Boiler, steel fire-tube, forced draft, hot water
Boiler, steel fire-tube, forced draft, steam
Boiler, steel fire-tube, natural draft, hot water
Boiler, steel fire-tube, natural draft, steam
Boiler, steel water-tube, forced draft, hot water
Boiler, steel water-tube, forced draft, steam
Boiler, steel water-tube, natural draft, hot water
Boiler, steel water-tube, natural draft, steam
Chiller, heat recovery, centrifugal
District heating
Heat exchanger, horizontal ground
Heat exchanger, horizontal (trench) ground
Heat exchanger, ground water, aquifers
Heat exchanger, ground water, standing column well
Heat exchanger, potable water
Heat exchanger, vertical bore
Heat exchanger, surface water, closed loop
Heat exchanger, surface water, open loop
Heat exchanger, wastewater
Heat exchanger, water-to-water
Municipal water plant
Other heating equipment
Chiller, heat recovery, rotary (screw)

Heating Pump

Centrifugal pump, close-coupled, end-suction
Centrifugal pump, frame-mounted, end-suction
Centrifugal pump, split-case, multistage pump
Centrifugal pump, split-case, single stage
Centrifugal pump, vertical in-line
Centrifugal pump, vertical turbine
Condensate pump
Other pump type

Control

Energy mgmt. system, all electronic components
Energy mgmt. system, all pneumatic components
Energy mgmt. system, direct digital controls
Energy mgmt. system, hybrid system with elec./pneumatic components
Manual control
Pneumatic controls
Thermostats, electric
Thermostats, programmable
Time clock
Other control system

Miscellaneous

Baseboard/Finned Tube Radiation
Cogeneration
Computer room air conditioning unit, chilled water
Computer room air conditioning unit, water-cooled DX compressor
Dehumidifier, liquid dessicant
Desuperheaters
Domestic hot water heater, electric
Domestic hot water heater, natural gas
Domestic hot water heater, propane
Domestic hot water heater with geothermal heat pump assistance
Exhaust fan
Fresh Air Units
Fume Hoods/Cabinets
Heat exchanger, plate and frame
Heat exchanger, heat pipe
Heat exchanger, heat wheel
Heat exchanger, hot water
Heat exchanger, run-around loop
Heat exchanger, thermosiphon
Heat recovery unit, air-to-air
Heat pump water heater
Humidifiers
Ionizers
Odor control
Perimeter heating, supplemental heating
Radiant panel heating
Refrigeration equipment (ice machines, walk-in coolers/freezers)
Smoke control
Solar water heater
Thermal storage, chilled water
Thermal storage, ice
Unit heater, electric
Unit heater, natural gas
Unit heater, propane
Window air conditioners
Other miscellaneous equipment
Dehumidifier, direct expansion
Dehumidifier, solid dessicant

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the primary components of an air distribution system in HVAC?

An air distribution system in HVAC typically consists of a blower or fan, air handling unit (AHU), ductwork, vents, and diffusers. The blower or fan draws in air, which is then filtered, cooled or heated, and humidified or dehumidified in the AHU. The conditioned air is then distributed through the ductwork to the vents and diffusers, which direct the air into the occupied spaces. Proper design, installation, and balancing of these components are crucial for efficient and effective air distribution.

How do I determine the correct size of a rooftop unit (RTU) for my building?

To determine the correct size of a rooftop unit (RTU) for your building, you need to calculate the total cooling or heating load required. This involves considering factors such as the building’s size, occupancy, insulation, window orientation, and climate zone. You can use industry-standard calculation methods, such as the Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Certification Board (ACHR) method or the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) method, to determine the required tonnage or BTU capacity of the RTU. Oversizing or undersizing the RTU can lead to energy inefficiencies, comfort issues, and reduced equipment lifespan.

What is the difference between a constant air volume (CAV) and variable air volume (VAV) system?

A constant air volume (CAV) system supplies a fixed amount of air to the conditioned space, regardless of the cooling or heating demand. In contrast, a variable air volume (VAV) system adjusts the airflow rate based on the changing load requirements. VAV systems are more energy-efficient and flexible, as they can modulate airflow to match the occupancy and temperature fluctuations. However, CAV systems are simpler and less expensive to install, making them suitable for smaller, less complex applications.

What are the advantages of using a heat pump system in HVAC applications?

Heat pump systems offer several advantages, including high energy efficiency, reduced energy costs, and environmental benefits. They can provide both heating and cooling, making them suitable for mild climate zones. Heat pumps can also be used in conjunction with other HVAC systems, such as boilers or chillers, to create hybrid systems that optimize energy usage. Additionally, heat pumps are relatively low-maintenance and can provide a long equipment lifespan.

How do I select the right type of HVAC control system for my building?

The selection of an HVAC control system depends on the building’s size, complexity, and occupancy patterns. For small to medium-sized buildings, a simple pneumatic or electric control system may be sufficient. Larger, more complex buildings may require a direct digital control (DDC) system, which can integrate with building automation systems (BAS) and provide advanced features like scheduling, trending, and alarms. It’s essential to consider factors such as system scalability, user interface, and compatibility with existing equipment when selecting an HVAC control system.

What are the key components of a hydronic HVAC system?

A hydronic HVAC system consists of a boiler or chiller, pumps, pipes, and heat exchangers. The boiler or chiller heats or cools water, which is then circulated through the pipes to the heat exchangers, such as radiators, convectors, or fan coils. The heat exchangers transfer the heat energy to the conditioned space. Hydronic systems can be more efficient and comfortable than air-based systems, especially in applications with high heating or cooling demands. They also offer design flexibility and can be used in conjunction with other HVAC systems.

What is the purpose of a building management system (BMS) in HVAC applications?

A building management system (BMS) is a computer-based system that monitors and controls various building systems, including HVAC, lighting, security, and fire safety. In HVAC applications, a BMS can optimize system performance, reduce energy consumption, and improve occupant comfort. It can also provide real-time monitoring, alarm notification, and data analytics to facilitate predictive maintenance and energy management. A BMS can integrate with other building systems and devices, enabling a holistic approach to building operations and management.