What are the Different Types of HVAC Service?

Different types of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) service may include installation, maintenance and repair of heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems. An HVAC technician is usually specifically trained to install, maintain, diagnose, and repair the electrical and mechanical components of these systems. Service personnel are also familiar with fuel and refrigerant needed for any of these systems. Companies might provide HVAC service to residential or industrial customers or a combination of both.

Installation of central heating or air conditioning systems requires not only connecting the appliance itself, but may also include installing the ductwork, which consists of the piping and tubing that run to and from the system, along with completing the necessary wiring. Once the entire system has been installed, the HVAC service company typically checks its performance using tools specific to the trade. Initial system checks might include making sure that the equipment and unit controls function properly, along with ensuring the absence of air or fuel leaks anywhere in the system.

Annual HVAC maintenance of heating and cooling systems usually involves checking the various components of the system. Technicians may tighten connections and check the voltage of electrical components of the unit. HVAC service may also include lubricating any moving parts. Technicians may run the equipment through a working cycle to ensure proper and safe operation of all the components.

Heating system specific maintenance generally involves checking the gas or oil connections for fire or health hazards. Using special instruments, technicians can check whether the gas enters the furnace at the appropriate pressure level. Maintenance usually includes visually assessing the burner combustion and heat exchanger for signs of dirt and damage, which can deter the unit from operating efficiently and safely. HVAC service maintenance on central air-conditioning units usually entails a variety of checks, which include ensuring that drains allow condensation to flow adequately.

Dirty or defective air-conditioning components not only affect the unit's operating efficiency but also escalate operation costs. Air-conditioning coils must be clean, or the unit will run for longer periods of time. Technicians typically check the refrigerant levels of the unit, as excessive or insufficient coolant also affects operation efficiency and costs. The blower components of the air-conditioner must be clean and allow adequate air circulation.

HVAC repair generally requires that a technician be knowledgeable about electricity and the construction and design of heating and cooling equipment. HVAC service repair regularly involves being able to identify, repair, or replace malfunctioning electrical or mechanical components of central heating and cooling units. Many states require licensure, following appropriate schooling and apprenticeship, before an individual qualifies as an HVAC technician.