HVAC

The classic acronym for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. Today, an HVAC system also includes air cleaning and moisture control.

There are 3 main types of residential HVAC systems - split systems, packaged systems, and ductless systems.

A split system is the most common type of HVAC system. This is where you have an outdoor unit (heat pump or air conditioner) and a paired indoor unit (air handler or furnace). A thermostat keeps track of the temperature and signals heating or cooling to begin until the system reaches the set temperature.

This central heating and cooling system uses ductwork and vents to distribute heated or cooled air throughout your home. 

A packaged system, or all-in-one system, is another type of central heating and cooling system that uses a ductwork system to distribute heated or cooled air. But unlike a split system, with a packaged system, the heating and cooling units are together in one cabinet. Packaged systems are a great solution for smaller homes that don’t have the space for a large indoor unit.

As the name implies, a ductless system heats and cools your home without using ductwork. 

Also known as a mini-split ductless system or multi-split ductless system, these systems have a mini-split heat pump outside that connects to one or more indoor units via refrigerant lines. You can control the temperature in each room separately. Ductless systems are a good solution for older homes without ductwork, or to heat and cool garages, lake cabins, or home additions.

In addition to the standard heating and cooling components, your HVAC system may also include an air purification system, humidity control system, or additional ventilation system. Your local American Standard dealer can help you find the right system and components for your home.

By Anne Fonda, Content Writer

Expert review by Kimberly Sexton, Senior Systems Engineer