You’re considering hiring an HVAC service to install new cooling equipment, but you’re confused about how to review and compare the various contractors’ quotes. Don’t worry. It’s not really a foreign language–it’s just HVAC jargon that can initially seem confusing.
Knowing how to review HVAC quotes can mean the difference between hiring a reliable and affordable contractor and being ripped off for a low-quality job. Familiarizing yourself with some common HVAC service terms can get you on the road to buying new cooling equipment and saving you money. Here are some terms commonly found on quotes for new cooling equipment, and their definitions, to help you find an HVAC service you can trust:
- Air handler: This is the part of your HVAC system that pushes air through the ductwork.
- Blower: This distributes filtered air through the supply duct, past the dampers and into the living or working space.
- Ceiling plenum: This is an area between the suspended ceiling and the flooring. It is created to accommodate the system’s electrical and mechanical equipment. Negative pressure must be maintained in this space.
- Condenser coil: This component converts the refrigerant in its gas form back to a liquid.
- Dampers: These are moving valves that direct warm or cool air into certain areas.
- Ductwork: This is the network of hollow tubes that run from the air handler to the vents located throughout your house.
- Electronic air cleaner: This device filters contaminants and larger particles out of your indoor air.
- Evaporator coil: In a split-system HVAC set-up, the evaporator coil cools and dehumidifies the air.
- Thermostat: This is the control point of the whole system. It allows you to adjust the temperature, record settings and set timers for turning the system on and off as you require. To get the most out of your new cooling equipment, consider a programmable thermostat.
Roth Home has been providing the residents of Portland with quality HVAC installation, maintenance and repair service since 1976. We pride ourselves on our quality customer service. We have a team of personnel that are committed to maintaining the best standards in all aspects of our business. Contact us at (503) 266-1249 to find out more, or to get a comprehensive quote on new cooling equipment.