Deciphering HVAC: A System to Increase Comfort & Cost-efficiency

HVAC is a popular term in the construction industry today and more people are gaining awareness about its meaning. HVAC systems are more prevalent in the areas where temperatures are extreme. Construction firms are leveraging this system to manage the temperature of a building to an optimal level. 

In this blog, let’s delve into its meaning, types, components, and benefits of using BIM in HVAC design.

What is HVAC?

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. This term refers to the various systems used to move air indoors and outdoors. 

You can use these systems to keep the indoors chilled in the summer and warm in the winter. They also help filter the air to keep the indoors fresh and maintain the right humidity levels. Hence, you can customize it according to your climate.

Types of HVAC Systems

These systems have two major types: Ducted HVAC systems and ductless HVAC systems. Let’s discuss the same extensively here.

Ducted HVAC Systems

Split System

Most residential buildings have cooling and heating split systems. Cooling unit is typically located on the outside and construction workers use a series of tubes to connect it to a building’s ductwork. This system uses refrigerant, coils and compressors to create chilled air. 

On the flip side, you can find the heating unit in the utility closet or basement. This heater uses gas to generate heat and a fan pushes heat in the building through ductwork. 

Hybrid Split System

The structure of the hybrid split system is same as the split system. However, it does not solely use gas to generate heat and can switch to electric power. 

Although electric heating is slower compared to gas-generated heat, however, it consumes less energy. This setup is cost-effective in milder climates.

Packaged Heating and Cooling

A packaged heating and cooling setup is less popular than its split counterparts. However, this system is effective for small buildings, which have limited storage space. 

This type of HVAC system uses a single hole in the wall to connect to the building’s supply and return ducts. You can install a packaged AC having an air handler and with the elements of a heat strip. 

Also, you can use a packaged heat pump consisting of evaporator coils. These systems do not cost much in installation and are easy to maintain.

Zoned System

HVAC zoned system offers higher control over the temperatures to the occupants in the various rooms or areas. This approach provides flexibility to the large residence owners to install numerous systems to regulate temperature on different floors. 

You can regulate the airflow through dampers, which work automatically or manually. This setup allows partial closing of the damper, which restricts the airflow to a zone. It pushes the air to other zones that need it and improves energy efficiency.

Ductless HVAC Systems

Duct-free Mini Split

You can find duct-free mini-split systems in offices, multifamily homes and hotels. They are installed in individual rooms. Condensar, outdoor compressor, indoor air-handling unit, power cables, heat pump, thermostat and refrigerant are the main components of this setup.

This system is expensive to install, however, it is effective to reduce consumption. They have flexible zoning capabilities that enable the occupants to cool or heat occupied spaces only. It prevents the energy loss that ductwork can cause. 

Hydronic Heating

Liquid is the major source of heat generation for hydronic heating setup rather than air. This HVAC system heats the water through a boiler and uses a series of pipes to distribute it throughout the building. 

A room heats up once the liquid reaches a baseboard heater or radiator. Homeowners also have the option of installing a radiant flooring system that heats the floors with the help of hydronic heating.

Portable Units

Portable spot heat pumps and coolers are portable AC units that heat up or cool a large area. These systems draw ambient air and push it over a refrigerated coil. 

After that, portable units pump it back into the space. These set-ups are simple to use and easy to transport.

Components of the HVAC System

Air Conditioner

An air conditioner cools down an indoor space through the removal of the heat as well as humidity and transfers it outside. You have to ensure regular maintenance of the AC to keep it working efficiently.

Furnace

A furnace is an HVAC component in which air-source heat pumps generate heat using electricity. It uses fuel sources such as prepone and natural gas to create heat. 

After this process, the furnace increases the temperature of your home by distributing the heat.

Heat Pump

A heat pump is effective in heating as well as cooling a space. They rely on the refrigerant for absorbing, transporting and releasing heat. A heat pump can reverse the flow of refrigerant to provide cooling or heating as per your command. 

Ductwork

Ductwork, also known as ducts is a system made from flexible pipes or sheet metal. This HVAC component carries air to the building from units such as air conditioners, heat pumps and air handlers.

Air Handler

Air handlers play a significant role in circulating chilled and warm air throughout a home. They are paired with heat pumps in most cases, however, you can also pair them with an AC.

Thermostat

The thermostat works same way as the brain in your body. It is located inside your home and helps in controlling the indoor temperature. If you change the temperature on the thermostat, HVAC system receives a signal that your place needs more warm or cool air.

Humidifier/Dehumidifier

Heating and cooling systems may have humidity control units. You can use humidifiers to increase the humidity in winter or in arid climates, which cause dry air. On the other hand, dehumidifiers can assist in regulating humidity in homes. 

Benefits of Leveraging BIM for HVAC Design

Visualization

BIM allows you to get a clear look at HVAC systems virtually. It enables you to gain better insights into the spatial constraints, system layout and design implications. 

BIM software has simulation tools that make it easy to analyze HVAC performance. For example, temperature distribution, airflow and energy consumption.

Collaboration

BIM fosters collaboration and communication among all the construction team members and clients. It is vital for ease in HVAC designing and execution. 

A large number of construction companies use BIM to design, schedule materials and make changes. 

Make Decisions Based on Data

BIM empowers you to make data-driven decisions as it uses data from different sources like design specifications. It also incorporates environmental data and manufacturer information to help you make smart decisions in the HVAC design process.

Stakeholders can use data analytics and visualization tools for the optimization of HVAC performance and its efficiency.

Interoperability

BIM facilitates the exchange of data among various software you use in HVAC design, For example, CAD (Computer Aided Design). The AEC industry requires this interoperability to boost workflow efficiency and reduce errors in data translation. 

Cost Efficiency

The AEC industry leverages BIM to ensure precision in HVAC material estimates. It can result in less duct and fittings waste, reduce labor shortages and keep a check on the budget. 

Conclusion

An HVAC system is paramount for every building today as the world is struggling to get fresh air. Also, extreme temperatures at various places highlight its importance. 

This technology is more commonly used in skyscraper residential or commercial buildings. However, it will become less expensive and more affordable in the future.

FAQs

Q1: What is the overview of an HVAC system?

Ans. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioner) is a system that enables the building owners to regulate the indoor temperature. In the summer, you can use air conditioners to make the indoors cool. On the other hand, you can use it to make the indoors warm in the winter.

Q 2: What is BIM in an HVAC system?

Ans. BIM (Building Information Modeling) helps in optimizing HVAC designs in construction projects. It helps in the visualization of HVAC systems, collaboration, data-driven decision-making and boosts cost efficiency.

Q 3: How many types of HVAC are there?

Ans. It has two major types; ducted HVAC systems and ductless HVAC systems. Split systems, hybrid split systems, packaged heating and cooling and zoned systems come into the ducted HVAC systems category. The ductless HVAC system category consists of the duct-free mini split, hydronic heating, portable spot cooler and portable heat pump.

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