Understanding and Learning the Basics of HVAC
Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Applications
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To understand air conditioning and heat pump applications you will need to study refrigeration. Both air conditioners and heat pumps use refrigeration to move heat. Air conditioners move heat outside in the summer time using the process of refrigeration while heat pumps move heat in both directions (to the inside in the winter and to the outside in the summer) using the principles of refrigeration. The basics foundation of refrigeration is understanding temperature pressure relationships, the compression cycle, and how different refrigerants absorb heat. You have to understand BTU’s a way to measure heat. You have to understand the four major components in the refrigeration cycle. The compressor, the evaporator, the condenser, and the metering device and understand how all these components work together to make the refrigeration system work. Finally a basic foundation in refrigeration will require you to learn basic physics of temperature, chemicals used for refrigerants, gas laws, and all the HVAC mechanical components that work together to make the refrigeration process work. This all the basics of a good HVAC education.
Learning the Basics of HVAC – Tools and Materials
Understanding the various and using tools and materials used for performing HVAC work is necessary to enjoy a successful career in HVAC. From tubing cutters, to hammers and screwdrivers, to multi-meters and refrigeration compound gauges you will find yourself working with all these various tools. Sheet metal, screws, tape, and piping are used heavily in performing many HVAC jobs and it is important to understand the various types of materials used for different applications. Knowledge of basic math is good to make the proper measurements of materials and when working with electrical circuits. Study the materials used and use them for the proper application especially wiring. Using the proper wire for electrical wiring is essential and necessary for safety. Using the correct tubing and piping for HVAC piping jobs requires a good basic knowledge of HVAC piping. Understanding tools and materials used in HVAC is very important to advance in the field of HVAC.
Learning the Basics of HVAC – HVAC Controls
HVAC Controls is a specialized field in commercial HVAC but in many residential applications it is important to understand basic electrical circuits and electrical components used in HVAC. This is especially true of you want to be an HVAC service technician who troubleshoots and services HVAC equipment. You have to have a good basic understanding of refrigeration, electrical circuits, and mechanical systems if you want to be a good HVAC service technician. Installer HVAC technicians need to have a basic understanding of these systems also however it is not necessary for an HVAC installer technician to understand all the essentials of HVAC troubleshooting as well as the HVAC service technician. Many HVAC service technicians start off as HVAC equipment installers and work hard to learn as much about all the basics they can before moving up to HVAC service technician.
A video example of a heat pump electrical circuit and how it functions as explained by the instructor
Learning the Basics of HVAC – HVAC Rules and Regulations
There are many rules and regulations one must follow to be a successful HVAC technician. These rules and regulations include: EPA Licensing requirements for handling refrigerants, HVAC company rules and regulations (obviously), local, state, and national codes for HVAC and electrical. Some state, local or national agencies will require and HVAC technician to possess an HVAC Journeyman’s or HVAC Masters license before they are allowed to work in the trade. The company where you are employed should have all the information for obtaining an HVAC license. All these things are requirements for good HVAC technicians to learn and comply with as the work they way up the ladder to HVAC success.
Learning the Basics of HVAC – Conclusion
If you want to be in the HVAC filed working as a technician you will need to study hard and work your way up the ladder. It will not be easy but with perseverance and hard work you can be the best HVAC technician out there. If you are interested in learning this trade High performance HVAC offers HVAC books in our book store to get you started. Browse the store and start learning today. We even have HVAC books that will help you get an HVAC license. Good luck in your HVAC career and learning.
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