USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604

ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813

SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

HVAC EQUIPMENT
PLAN :
1. Boilers
2. Burners
3. Heating Elements
4. Domestic Hot Water Tanks
5. AC Units
6. Air Outlets

INTRODUCTION

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are crucial for maintaining comfort and indoor air quality
in buildings. This chapter explores the classification of HVAC systems into central and local systems based on zones,
location, and distribution. Central HVAC systems, situated in a separate equipment room, use ductwork to deliver
conditioned air and include all-air, air-water, and all-water systems. Local HVAC systems, located within or near
conditioned zones, eliminate the need for ductwork and include options like local heating, local air-conditioning,
local ventilation, and split systems.

HVAC systems play a pivotal role in meeting comfort and

environmental requirements in various building types, including
industrial, commercial, residential, and institutional structures. The
primary goal is to ensure the comfort of occupants by adjusting
outdoor air conditions. The selection of HVAC systems depends on
factors such as climate, building age, owner preferences, project
budget, and architectural design.

HISTORY

In the 1840s, long before electricity was invented might be the remedy for
fighting disease and keeping people comfortable. He came up a system of
interior cooling that involved transporting huge blocks of ice from frozen lakes
and streams in the north to cool hospital rooms. The logistics were unreasonable,
so he experimented with refrigeration and devised a machine that made ice using
horsepower, wind-powered sails or steam. He was granted a patent for his ice-
making machine in 1851 but never saw it come to the marketplace, as his chief
financial backer died. However, his work laid the foundation for modern-day air
conditioning.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

WHEN WAS AIR CONDITIONING INVENTED?

, who worked as an engineer at the Buffalo (NY) Forge Company, was

given the task of solving a big humidity problem in a Brooklyn publishing
company that made magazine pages wrinkle. He designed and patented
his “Apparatus for Treating Air” that used cooling coils to either humidify
the air by heating water or dehumidify by cooling water. He ran tests to
perfect his technology and then built and patented an automatic control
system that regulated the humidity and air temperature in textile mills. With the success of his apparatus, he
realized that other kinds of businesses could benefit from temperature and humidity regulation, so he left Buffalo
Forge and formed his own company—Carrier Engineering Corporation—with six other engineers. The AC invention
date—1902—is credited to Carrier.

1- BOILERS

WHAT IS A BOILER?

A heating system that produces steam is called a steam boiler. By boiling water to produce steam, it produces
energy. It is a heat exchanger with a combustion chamber and a water container that produces steam for external
use. There are numerous sizes of steam boilers available, from tiny models for lighter applications to larger models
for heavier workloads.

Fuel is burned in a steam boiler to heat water. Steam is created when water and heat are combined. Three types of
heat are needed to produce steam: conduction, convection, and radiation.

TYPES OF BOILERS

1- HOT WATER BOILERS

Hot water boilers are tanks that transfer heat to water that is
circulated for heating purposes. They are made of stainless steel, cast
iron, aluminum, and steel and are capable of withstanding increased
temperature and pressure.

The types of hot water boilers are defined by their tube systems, which
can be fire or water. Fire tube hot water boilers have tubes immersed
in water; heat moves through the tubes and heats the water around
them. Water tube boilers have water inside the tubes that circulates as
the tubes are heated.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

2- ELECTRIC BOILERS
Electric boilers use electric elements to generate heat; it is a faster and
more efficient heating method. It is an eco-friendly, cleaner system
since it does not necessitate the burning of a fuel. Electric boilers are
longer lasting, require less cleaning, and are maintenance free. The one
factor that has to be controlled with electric boilers though is the
buildup of scaling in the water reservoir.

3- GAS BOILERS
Gas steam boilers are more efficient than conventional boilers and run on
propane or natural gas. A gas boiler receives its fuel through piping from an
external source that is directly connected to the boiler. The configuration of
a gas steam boiler determines how heat is distributed. Low pressure and
industrial uses are both possible for gas steam boilers.

4- LOW PRESSURE BOILERS

Low pressure steam boilers heat water to a temperature of 300°F (149°C) at
pressures of 10 to 15 psi. When a constant temperature is needed and there is
little requirement for quick temperature changes, this kind of boiler is utilized.
Because they can produce steam so much faster than high pressure steam
boilers, low pressure steam boilers are quite popular.

5- HIGH PRESSURE BOILERS

In order to power machinery and equipment, high pressure steam boilers
generate excessive pressure. A pump drives high-pressure steam into the
circulation system, giving a high-pressure steam boiler its force and power. A
boiler must be able to produce pressure between 15 and 800 psi at
temperatures higher than 250°F (121°C) in order to be considered a high
pressure steam boiler.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

High pressure steam boilers are routinely checked for temperature and pressure in order to ensure both efficiency
and safety. High pressure steam boilers can have batch or continuous high pressure loads; batch is used for short-
term demand and continuous for long-term demand.

6- OIL BOILERS
Oil steam boilers operate on the same principles as gas boilers; oil is
ignited in the combustion chamber instead of gas. The burning oil
heats the exchanger that heats the water. Oil steam boilers can
reach an efficiency of over 90%. Though they are more expensive
than gas steam boilers, they tend to have twice the lifespan of a gas
boiler.

One concern with oil boilers is the need for an oil tank inside or
outside that has to be refilled regularly to provide a constant supply
of fuel.

7- WATER TUBE BOILERS

Water is passed through the boiler's tubes in water tube
boilers. The water is heated as a result of the fire in the
combustion chamber burning around the tubes' exterior and
heating them. The tangential pressure in the tubes, or "hoop
stress," which is pressure applied to the tubes' circumference
and is comparable to the stress applied to a wood barrel's
bands as it fills, is how this boiler design generates high
pressure steam.

Since the invention of the first boiler, many kinds of water tube boilers have been employed, but they have
progressively evolved over the centuries.

8- LA MONT BOILERS, BENSON BOILERS, AND LOEFFLER BOILERS

La Mont, Benson, and Loeffler steam boilers generate large amounts of
steam with high efficiency by using draught fans and forced circulation.
Water is pushed through small diameter, closely spaced tubes using a
centrifugal pump. An economizer that uses the flue or pipes gases from
the combustion chamber to preheat the water is what gives a La Mont,
Benson, and Loeffler their efficiency.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

9- FIRE TUBE BOILERS

The boiler's tubes in a fire tube steam boiler are heated, and water
flows around them. Steam is created inside the tubes by thermal
conduction, which transfers the heat from the gases heated by coal
or oil to the water. Low pressure steam is produced by fire tube
steam boilers. Fire tube steam boilers come in three primary
varieties: Lancashire, Locomotive, and Cochran.

10- SHELL BOILERS

Shell boilers have their heat transfer surfaces enclosed in a
shell that is usually made of steel. Several combinations of
tube layouts are used; tube layout determines the number of
passes heat makes before being discharged. Shell boilers, also
known as flue boilers, have a long water tank configuration
with fire tubes. The heat from the furnace or combustion
chamber passes through these fire tubes to heat the water.

The earliest form of this type of boiler was the Cornish boiler,
which consisted of a long cylinder with a single large flue or pipe that contained the heat or fire. It was replaced by
the Lancashire steam boiler, which had two flues for the fire.

METHODS USED TO HEAT A BOILER

RADIATION
Radiation is energy that is transmitted by all elements and bodies. It is the continuous interchange of energy
between surfaces using electromagnetic waves. In the case of a steam boiler, the tubes in the boiler absorb radiant
heat from the flame produced in the combustion chamber. The heat from radiation heating depends on the rate at
which the electromagnetic waves are absorbed.

CONVECTION
Convection is the transfer of heat within a liquid or gas when the liquid or gas is heated. As the liquid or gas is
heated, it mixes with the cooler liquid or gas and heats the cooler liquid or gas. In a steam boiler, the convection
process occurs when the fluid in the boiler is heated and becomes lighter and less dense. Heavier, cooler fluids or air
move in as the lighter heated fluid or gas moves out. The replacement of hot fluids with cold fluids begins the
process all over again.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

CONDUCTION
Conduction is a physical contact process where heat is transferred from one surface to another by contact. Heat in a
metal moves through the metal to heat what it has touched. Conduction in a steam boiler takes place as the outer
part of the tubing is heated, and the heat passes through to the inner part and to the cool water in the tube.

2-BRUNERS

WHAT IS A GAS BURNER?

As the name suggests, a furnace burner is a mechanism within your furnace that produces heat. Combining air and
fuel before combustion, the generated warmth is dispersed throughout the ventilation system to heat your living or
workspace. The size of your furnace determines if it has a singular or dual burner. All heating units—propane, gas,
and oil—contain furnace burners. Some furnaces also have a pre-mixer, which is responsible for combining fuel and
air before it’s heated to produce more efficient furnaces.

HOW DOES A FURNACE BURNER OPERATE?

To help you get an in-depth understanding of a furnace burner, let’s break the air-warming process into six steps:

Step One: When a room’s air temperature is below a thermostat’s set temperature, the heating cycle begins.

Step Two: As the fuel valve opens and releases fuel for the furnace burner, the air intake system gathers fresh air
from outside. The incoming air and fuel combine.

Step Three: The pilot light ignites, warming the fuel-air combination.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

Step Four: Warm air is blown over the heat exchanger and is moved through your home’s HVAC ductwork.

Step Five: Hot air is then distributed through the ventilation system by a blower fan.

TYPES OF FURNACE BURNERS

The majority of furnace burners in residential heating systems are one of the following:

Conversion Burner: Use when heating systems need to transform fuel before burning.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

Inshot Burner: Component of high-efficiency furnaces. Requires a blower to intake air into the furnace burner
and through the ignition chamber and heat exchanger.

Upshot Burner: Popular component for natural draft furnaces. Commonly found in older furnaces.

4 TYPES OF FURNACE BURNER ISSUES

Most of us don’t know how essential a furnace burner is until it starts to malfunction. A fully functional burner will
efficiently generate heat while preventing your exposure to carbon monoxide. If your furnace burner is faulty,
contact a certified HVAC technician for professional advice. Listed below are the most common issues of a furnace
burner:

CRACKS
An aging burner may crack as a result of constant expansion (heating) and contraction (cooling). This normal wear is
resolved with the replacement of your furnace burner.

RUST & DETERIORATION

If it’s been several years since you hired a professional to perform furnace maintenance, you may have a rusty
burner. Rust, which is caused by residual moisture and lack of air circulation, can impact the function and efficiency
of your furnace burners. Deteriorating parts will need immediate replacement.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

BLOCKAGES
Without regular maintenance, your furnace’s filter will collect debris, prevent adequate airflow, and create noise. It
may even prevent the pilot flame from igniting. If you’re not sure how to clean a gas furnace burner, contact a
technician for maintenance.

HOW LONG DO FURNACE BURNERS LAST?

In most cases, the furnace burners should last the furnace’s lifetime, but in damp conditions or when using propane
gas, the burners may rust. Rusting is a problem that furnace burners have to deal with as it is a very corrosive gas.
Stainless steel burners are used on propane furnaces to help eliminate this issue. If the burners go bad, the flames
will not migrate down the burners, and the furnace will not fire up. You will need to call our team if you experience
something like this.

3- HEATING ELEMENTS

WHAT IS A HEATING ELEMENT?

A heating element is a material or device that directly converts electrical energy into heat or thermal energy
through a principle known as Joule heating. Joule heating is the phenomenon where a conductor generates heat
due to the flow of electric current. As the electric current flows through the material, electrons or other charge
carriers collide with the ions or atoms of the conductor creating friction at an atomic scale. This friction then
manifests as heat. Joule‘s first law (Joule-Lenz law) is used to describe the amount of heat produced from the flow
of electricity in a conductor.

Almost all conductors are capable of generating heat when an electric current is passed through. However, not all
conductors are suited to be made into heating elements. The right combination of electrical, mechanical, and
chemical properties is required. Enumerated below are the properties significant to heating element design.

Resistivity:
To produce heat, the heating element must have enough electrical resistance. However, the
resistance must not be so high that it becomes an insulator. Electrical resistance is equal to the
resistivity multiplied by the length of the
conductor divided by the conductor cross-
section. For a given cross-section, to have a
shorter conductor, a material with a high
resistivity is used.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

OXIDATION RESISTANCE:
Heat generally accelerates oxidation in both metals and ceramics. Oxidation can consume the heating element
which can decrease its capacity or compromise its structure. This limits the life of the heating element. For
metallic heating elements, alloying with an oxide former, helps in resisting oxidation by forming a passive layer.
For ceramic heating elements, protective oxidation resistant scales of SiO2 or Al2O3 are most common. Heating
element types not suitable for use in oxidizing environments, such as graphite, are most often used in vacuum
furnaces, or furnaces containing non-oxidizing atmosphere gases, such as H2, N2, Ar or He, where the heating
chamber is evacuated of air.

TEMPERATURE COEFFICIENT OF RESISTANCE:

Note that the resistivity of the material changes with
temperature. In most conductors, as temperature
increases, resistance also increases. This phenomenon has
a more significant effect on some materials than others. A
higher temperature coefficient of resistance is mostly used
for heat-sensing applications. For heat generation, it is
usually better to have a lower value. Though in some
instances where the change in resistance can be accurately
predicted, a sharp increase in resistance is desirable to
deliver more power. To make the system adjust for the
changing resistivity, control or feedback systems are
employed.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES:
Rigid heating elements can deform when used at high temperatures. As the material approaches its molten or
recrystallization phase, the material can weaken and deform more easily as compared to its state at room
temperature. A good heating element can maintain its form even at high temperatures. On a different note, ductility
is also a desired mechanical property, especially for metallic heating elements. Ductility enables the material to be
drawn into wires and formed into shape without compromising its tensile strength.

MELTING POINT:
Aside from the temperature where oxidation significantly increases, the material‘s melting point also limits its
operating temperature. Ceramics generally have higher melting points than metallic heaters.

HEATING ELEMENT MATERIALS

• Nickel-Chromium (Ni-Cr) Alloy

• Iron-Chromium-Aluminum (Fe-Cr-Al) Alloy
• Molybdenum Disilicide (MoSi2)
• Silicon Carbide (SiC)
• Graphite
• Molybdenum, Tungsten, and Tantalum
• Positive Thermal Coefficient (PTC) Materials
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

TYPES OF HEATING ELEMENTS

The heating element alone does not comprise the entire heating system. Aside from the heating
element, a heater consists of the terminations, leads, insulation, packing, sheath, and seals.
These heaters have various forms and configurations to suit a particular application. Enumerated
below are the most common heaters and their applications.

AIR PROCESS HEATERS:

As the name suggests, this type of heater is used to
heat up flowing air. Air process heaters are basically a
heated tube or pipe w herein one end is for introducing
cold air while the other end is the hot air exit. Along the
walls of the pipe are coils of heating elements insulated
by ceramics and non-conducting gaskets. These are
typically used in high-flow, low-pressure applications.
Applications for air process heaters are heat shrinking, laminating, adhesive activation or curing.
drying, baking..

CARTRIDGE HEATERS:
In this type of heater, the resistance wire is coiled around a ceramic core, typically made of
compacted magnesium oxide. Rectangular configurations are also available where the
resistance wire coils pass three to five times along the length of the cartridge. The resistance
wire or the heating element is situated near the
walls of the sheathing material for maximum heat
transfer. To protect the internals, the sheath is
usually made of corrosion resistant materials like
stainless steel. The leads are usually flexible with
both of their terminations located on one end of the
cartridge. Cartridge heaters are used in die or mold
heating, fluid heating (immersion heaters), and
surface heating.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

TUBULAR HEATERS:
Tubular heaters‘ internals is the same as that of
cartridge heaters. Its main difference from cartridge
heaters is that the lead terminals are on the
opposite ends of the tube. The whole tubular
construction can be bent into different forms to suit
the heat distribution required by the space or
surface to be heated. Also, these heaters can
feature fins that are mechanically bonded onto the
sheath surface to aid in an effective heat transfer.
Tubular heaters are as versatile as cartridge heaters and are used in similar applications.

Band Heaters:
These heaters are designed to wrap around cylindrical metal
surfaces or containers such as pipes, barrels, drums, extruders, and
so forth. They feature bolted locking tabs to securely clamp onto
the surface of the container. Inside the band, the heater is a thin
resistance wire or ribbon typically insulated by a mica layer. The
sheathing is made of stainless steel or brass. Another advantage of
using band heaters is that it indirectly heats the fluid inside the
vessel. This means the heater is not subjected to any chemical
attack from the process fluid. Possible ignition is also prevented
when used for oil and lubricant service.

STRIP HEATERS:
This type of heater is flat and rectangular in form and is
bolted on to the surface to be heated. Its internals are
similar to a band heater. However, the insulating material,
aside from mica, can be ceramics such as magnesium oxide
and fiberglass. The typical use of strip heaters is surface
heating of dies, molds, platens, tanks, ducts, etc. Aside
from surface heating, they can also be used for air or fluid
heating by having finned surfaces. Finned strip heaters are seen in ovens and space heaters.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

ETCHED FOIL HEATERS:

• Etched foil heaters can also be referred to as
thin-film heaters. In this type, the resistive
heating material is etched and bonded onto a
foil usually made of aluminum. If more flexibility
and tear resistance is required, the substrate
can also be made of heat-resisting synthetic
rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In
addition to its flexibility, another advantage is
the tight spacing of the heating elements. This is
the inherent advantage of photochemical
etching. Even heat distribution with a larger heat density can be achieved in such small
forms. Its applications are more specialized in comparison with the conventional wire
heaters. Etched foil heaters are usually seen in medical devices, electronics and
instrumentation, aerospace, and clothing. One side can be lined with an adhesive layer
for easy mounting.

CERAMIC HEATERS:
These heaters use ceramics with a high
melting point, high thermal stability, high-
temperature strength, high relative chemical
inertness, and small heat capacity. Note that
these are different from ceramics used as an
insulating material. Due to its good thermal
conducting properties, it is used to conduct
and distribute heat from the heating element.
Notable ceramic heaters are silicon nitride
and aluminum nitride. These are commonly used for rapid heating as seen on glow plugs
and igniters. However, when subjected to quick high-temperature heating and cooling
cycles, the material is prone to cracking due to fatigue caused by thermal stresses. A
special type of ceramic heaters is a PTC ceramic. This type can self-regulate its power
consumption which then prevents it from becoming red hot.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

CERAMIC FIBER HEATERS:

In this type of heater, the ceramic fiber is used as an
insulator to concentrate the heat into the surface to be
heated to prevent system losses. Ceramic fiber pads have a
resistance wire wound on one-side. This side is bonded on
the surface to be heated which can reach up to 1,200°C.:
Factors to Consider in Selecting a Heater
• Watt Density:
• Temperature
• Power Supply
• Fluid Flow
• Temperature Sensor Location
• Corrosion

4. DOMESTIC HOT WATER TANKS

Hot water is delivered by a Domestic Hot Water (DHW) System to fixtures used by people at the tub, sink, shower,
and any other appliance where water may come into contact with people. Usually, they function by providing hot
water via a centralized storage tank that is kept apart from water that could be utilized for hydronic or steam
heating.

HOW DO DOMESTIC HOT WATER SYSTEMS OPERATE

In commercial domestic hot water systems, solutions are most often tank based. A central reservoir of hot water is
heated to ~140F – 160F (60C-70C) and then cooled by a mixing valve to between 110 and 120F before it hits sinks
and showers so that no scalding occurs. The water is centrally stored in tanks at a higher temperature to prevent the
growth of Legionella bacteria and to insure that demand for hot water can be met during peak periods .
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

TYPES OF WATER HEATERS

Conventional storage water

heaters offer a ready reservoir (storage tank) of hot water which is adequate for everyday
use. However, there are some instances, such as when more than one use for hot water is
occurring or when there are guests in the home, increasing the requirements for hot water.

TANKLESS OR DEMAND-TYPE WATER HEATERS

heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. This type of water heater is designed to
provide an adequate supply of hot water without running out when adequately sized.

HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS

move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly for providing hot
water, resulting in high efficiencies and significant cost savings.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

SOLAR WATER HEATERS

use the sun's heat to provide hot water and also save money on energy bills.

TANKLESS COIL AND INDIRECT WATER HEATER

use a home's space heating system to heat water.

SELECTION CRITERIA

• Fuel type, availability and cost.0

• Size.
• Energy efficiency.
• Costs.

5. AC UNITS
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

WHAT IS HVAC?

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It refers to the whole system that controls the
temperature, humidity, air quality, and airflow in your home. An HVAC system typically consists of:

A furnace or a heat pump that provides heating

An air conditioner or a heat pump that provides cooling
A thermostat that regulates the temperature settings
A network of ducts that distributes warm or cool air throughout your home
A fan or a blower that circulates the air
An air filter that removes dust, pollen, and other contaminants from the air
A humidifier or a dehumidifier adjusts the moisture level in the air
An HVAC system can provide both heating and cooling functions with a single unit (such as a heat pump) or with
separate units (such as a furnace and an air conditioner).

Depending on your climate, preferences, budget, and space availability, you can choose from different types of
HVAC systems such as split systems (where some components are located inside and some outside), packaged
systems (where all components are housed in one cabinet outside), hybrid systems (where you can switch between
gas and electric power sources), geothermal systems (where you use underground pipes to exchange heat with the
earth), etc.

WHAT IS AN AC SYSTEM?

AC stands for air conditioning. It is the system that cools down the air in your home by removing heat and moisture.
A typical central air conditioning system consists of:

1- A compressor that pressurises refrigerant (a chemical substance that absorbs and releases heat)
2- A condenser coil that releases heat to the outside
3- An evaporator coil that absorbs heat from inside
4- An expansion valve that regulates refrigerant flow

An AC system can be part of an HVAC system (such as a central AC) or operate independently (such as a window
unit).

Central air conditioners use ducts and vents that are part of the HVAC system to
distribute cool air throughout your home.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS AND DRAWBACKS OF HVAC AND AC SYSTEMS ?

1. Comfort

2. Energy efficiency

3. Cost

KEY COMPONENTS OF AN AC UNIT

Every AC unit comprises several key components that work together to cool and dehumidify the air. These include:
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

1.Evaporator Coil: This component absorbs heat from the indoor air.

2.Compressor: Located in the outdoor unit, the compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, preparing it to
release its heat outside.

3.Condenser Coil: This coil releases the heat absorbed from your home to the outside air.

4.Expansion Valve: This device controls the amount of refrigerant going into the evaporator coil.

In addition to these primary components, an AC unit also includes other parts such as air filters, a blower fan, and a
thermostat.

TYPES OF AC UNITS

CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING

A central air-conditioning system is the largest and most expensive type of conventional air conditioner. Like a split
system, a central system is made up of two units—the condensing unit and the evaporative unit—that are
connected to each other by refrigerant tubing.

Central air conditioners are typically the most effective type of air
conditioner for cooling entire homes. When installing a new
central system, the primary consideration is making sure the
system is sized appropriately for your home. If a system is too
large, it won't perform well and won't adequately dehumidify the
interior air. If it's too small, it won't cool adequately. Proper
maintenance of a central air conditioning system is also important
and often requires a professional.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

WINDOW AIR CONDITIONERS

A window air conditioner is technically called a "unitary"
air-conditioning system and consists of a self-contained air-
conditioning unit that is placed in a window or, less
commonly, through a hole in an exterior wall. A window air
conditioner contains all the refrigeration components in
one compact box. It ejects heat out through condenser
coils located on the outdoor side of the appliance. It blows
cooled air into the room on the indoor side where the
evaporator coils are located.

Room moisture that condenses on the evaporator coils

generally drips to the ground from a tray located on the underside of the appliance. This is why a window air
conditioner must be installed so it tilts very slightly toward the outdoor side. Tilted the wrong way, some air
conditioners might drip water onto the floor inside the house.

Window air conditioners come in many sizes to cool any space from a single room up to an entire floor. A large
window air conditioner might be able to cool an entire small home, especially if it's a single-story home. And it's an
economical choice with easy installation.

PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONERS

A portable air conditioner is another type of unitary air-conditioning
system. It consists of a mobile, self-contained air-conditioning unit that is
placed on the floor inside a room. It discharges exhaust heat using a hose
vent through an exterior wall or window vent. Like a window air
conditioner, both evaporator coils and condenser coils are located in the
same box, which is one reason these units are a bit noisier than other types
of AC systems.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

DUCTLESS MINI SPLIT AIR CONDITIONERS

The split system—also called ductless or "mini-split"—breaks the air-
conditioning system into two packages, or terminal units. The condensing
unit is located on the building's exterior and includes the compressor,
condenser, and condenser fan. The evaporative unit is located on the
interior and handles the air cooling and distribution.

FLOOR-MOUNTED AIR CONDITIONER

Floor-mounted air conditioners are also called through-the-wall air conditioners or split systems though they sit on
or near the floor. A floor-mounted unit typically mounts low on the wall and can be partially recessed. The air
conditioner is easy to access and maintain because it is located low in the room. It's a straightforward unit since it's
much like other air conditioning units except that it's positioned to quickly cool down a room.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

SMART AIR CONDITIONER

Smart air conditioners make it easy to create and control
comfortable temperatures in your home. You can set a custom
cooling schedule that guarantees that your home is the perfect
temperature every hour of the day and night.

A smart air conditioner saves money in the long run because it

maintains a desired temperature while efficiently operating
once it reaches that ideal temperature. That means it's
consuming less energy than a traditional AC unit and lowering
your bill.

GEOTHERMAL AIR CONDITIONER

The geothermal HVAC system simply moves
heat around. The system uses two components
in your home: a heat pump and pipe buried in
the ground. The pump circulates a fluid mixture
that acts as a heat exchanger to absorb or
extract heat to warm or cool your home. As an
air conditioner, the heat pump draws heat out
of your home and into the ground to cool your
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

home. Basically, the ground acts as a heat sink in the summer to keep your home cool.

DUAL FUEL AIR CONDITIONER

Better known as a dual fuel HVAC system, this system uses two
sources of fuel to heat and cool a home. A dual fuel combination
could include an electric heat pump and a gas furnace or an electric
heat pump and an oil furnace. Essentially, the heat pump replaces
your central air conditioning system.

During the summer, the heat pump works as an air conditioner. The
heat pump works in tandem with your furnace to remove hot air
from indoors while cooler air is distributed by the furnace’s blower.
During cooler months, the heat pump becomes the primary source
of heat, supplying warm air until very cold air triggers the furnace
to turn on.

This system works best for homes in rural areas that do not have access to natural gas and have limited access to
propane and oil.

EVAPORATIVE AIR CONDITIONER

Evaporative air conditioners, also called evaporative coolers or swamp coolers, work on simple logic by cooling the
air through the evaporation of water. This type of air conditioner can be purchased as a portable unit and you can
even make a small DIY version. This type of air conditioner is common in hot, arid southwestern states, such as
Arizona and New Mexico.

The device works on the premise that a continuous stream of

fresh, warm, and dry air passes through an internal filter
that's wet, and pushes out cooled air into a room via a fan
and motor. A motorized evaporative cooler works best when
the windows are left open. Modern evaporative air
conditioners come as whole-house systems or individual
units. However, it is unlikely and inefficient to use both an
evaporative and traditional air conditioner in one house.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

AIR OUTLIT

WHAT IS AN AIR OUTLIT

An air outlet, in the context of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, refers to a component or
device through which conditioned air is discharged into a room or space. Its primary function is to distribute air
evenly and efficiently for the purpose of maintaining comfort, controlling temperature, and ensuring proper
ventilation. Air outlets are an integral part of the air distribution system in buildings.

TYPES OF AIR OUTLIT

REGISTERS:
• Wall Registers: Installed on walls, these are adjustable devices that control
the airflow and direction of conditioned air.

• Floor Registers: Similar to wall registers but installed in the floor, allowing
for air distribution from lower levels.

DIFFUSERS:
• Ceiling Diffusers: Mounted on ceilings, these devices disperse conditioned air in
various directions to ensure even distribution.
• Floor Diffusers: Positioned in the floor, they help distribute air at lower levels.

GRILLES:
• Return Air Grilles: Allow air to return to the HVAC system for conditioning. They are often placed in walls or
ceilings.
• Supply Air Grilles: Discharge conditioned air into the space and are available in various designs.

LOUVERS:
• Adjustable Louvers: Slatted openings that can be adjusted to control the direction of airflow. They are often
used in doors or walls.
USEK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE MARIA HELAYEL 202100604
ARCH420- SANITARY AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENTS ELIAS MHANNA 202200813
SEMESTER FALL 2023 JOYA HOKAYEM 202200016

VENT COVERS:
• Decorative Vent Covers: Designed for aesthetic purposes, these covers can be added to conceal air outlets
while maintaining airflow.

LINEAR SLOT DIFFUSERS:

Long, narrow slots that provide a continuous line of air distribution. They are commonly used in commercial
buildings.

ROUND DIFFUSERS:
Circular-shaped outlets designed to evenly distribute conditioned air in all directions. They are often used in
residential and commercial settings.

PERFORATED PANELS:
Panels with small holes that allow conditioned air to pass through, providing a more subtle and diffuse distribution.

SWIRL DIFFUSERS:
Designed to create a swirling airflow pattern, promoting better air mixing and distribution.

EGG CRATE GRILLES:

Grilles with an egg crate pattern, allowing for both aesthetic appeal and effective airflow distribution.

JET DIFFUSERS:
Provide a long throw of air, making them suitable for large spaces. They are designed to project air over long
distances.