General construction: how buildings go together
HVAC basics for small buildings
HVAC covers heating, ventilation and air conditioning. A good system starts with a good shell, and is sized to the actual load. Here are the basics for owners and developers.
HVAC covers heating, ventilation and air conditioning. A good system starts with a good shell, and is sized to the actual load. Here are the basics for owners and developers.
What HVAC does
It moves heat in or out of the building, supplies fresh air and controls humidity. Comfort depends on all three.
Common systems
- Split and mini-split heat pumps: an outdoor unit linked to indoor units, providing both heating and cooling.
- Ducted systems: a central unit distributes air through ducts.
- Radiant and hydronic: water-heated floors or panels.
- Dedicated ventilation or dehumidification: often needed in humid climates.
Size from the load
Oversized equipment cycles on and off, wastes energy and handles humidity poorly. A load calculation, for example by the Manual J method in the US, sizes the equipment to the building. Improve the envelope first, because a better envelope allows smaller equipment. See the envelope first.
Ducts and placement
Leaky ducts in unconditioned spaces waste a large share of the energy. Keep ducts inside the thermal boundary and sealed, and leave service access.
Humid and coastal sites
Humidity control matters more than temperature alone. Salt air shortens the life of outdoor units unless they are coated or protected. See materials for humid climates.
Quick answers
- How do I size an air conditioner? Have a load calculation done. Rules of thumb over- or undersize often.
- Is a heat pump good in hot climates? Yes, it works as a cooling system in summer, and efficiency varies by model and conditions.
- Why is my building humid with AC running? Oversizing and short cycling often leave humidity uncontrolled.
Keep reading
- Ventilation and indoor air basics
- Energy efficiency: the envelope first
- Plumbing rough-in overview
- Air sealing the building envelope
Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.
Questions people ask
How do I size an air conditioner?
Have a load calculation done. Rules of thumb over- or undersize often.
Is a heat pump good in hot climates?
Yes, it works as a cooling system in summer, and efficiency varies by model and conditions.
Why is my building humid with AC running?
Oversizing and short cycling often leave humidity uncontrolled.
Sources and further reading
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