HVAC
HVAC (pronounced "H-VAK" or "H-V-A-C") stands for "Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning". Also sometimes referred to as 'climate control', HVAC systems address air temperature and freshness issues within buildings. HVAC functions are connected, as they control the temperature and humidity of the air within a building in addition to providing for smoke control, maintaining pressure relationships between spaces, and providing fresh air for occupants.
In modern building designs design, installation and control systems of these functions are integrated into a single "HVAC" system. HVAC installation is a science and an art, as many factors are required for the system to work successfully. Efficiency is also a significant factor as the amount of energy used by HVAC systems can vary considerably.
HVAC is important in the design of medium to large industrial and office buildings such as skyscrapers, where safe, healthy and comfortable air conditions need to be maintained. HVAC systems are also found in many homes and there is now greater interest and concern over indoor air quality.
HVAC systems can be complex and include many components including blowers, plenums (central distribution and collection points), ductwork, heating and cooling elements, thermostats, smoke and fire dampers, volume control dampers and air filtration components.
Typical HVAC air filtration systems include "whole house air purifiers" such as the Airpura C600, which connects directly to a home central air system. Ths C600 features HEPA filtration, filters to protect against bacteria, pathogens and antigens and 26lbs of activated carbon.
Other commonly used air purification technologies for HVAC systems include disposable filters such as the well known 3M "filtrete" squares.
Although HVAC now uses advanced technology, HVAC systems have 'ancient roots': The invention of central heating is often accredited to the ancient Romans, who created systems of air ducts in walls and floors of public baths and private villas, which were fed with hot air from a central fire. Also - and perhaps even more surprising, is the fact that certain African and Austsralian termite species use a form of natural air conditioning by building their 'towers' in such a way that hot air escapes and cool air is drawn in.
Termite tower info: http://www.exchangedlife.com/Creation/termite_towers.htm
