Glossary of Terms

  When viewing this site or conversing with our service technicians, you may occasionally encounter some some unfamiliar words, terms, or phrases.  Below you will find some of the most commonly used terms in the industry and a brief definition.

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficienty): The annualized average efficiency of a fuel fired appliace, taking into account the effect of on-off operation.
Air Conditioning  The treatment of air temperature, humidity, cleanliness, and circulation so as to achieve a controlled desired result.
Automatic Changeover Thermostat  A thermostat that selects either heating or cooling, depending on room temperature and the heating and cooling setpoints.
BTU  (British Thermal Unit)  The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water 1 degree. A quantity of heat.
CFM  (Cubic Feet per Minute) The unit of measure of the volume rate of air flow as in a heating system
Efficiency  The ratio of the output of a device, system, or activity to the input required to generate that output
Energy Star Qualified   Products that meet strict energy efficiency guidlines by the US Environmental Protection Agency and offer significant long-term energy savings.  Visit Website
NATE (North American Technician Excellence)   The only nationwide certification program accepted by the entire HVAC industry-voluntary technician certification reflecting a concensus opinion of what technicians need to know to effectively service and install today's HVAC systems.  Visit Website
Refrigerant  A fluid (liquid or gas) that picks up heat by evaporating at a low temperature and pressure. It gives up heat by condensing at a higher temperature and pressure.
SEER  (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)   A number that describes how well air-conditioning equipment works.  A higher SEER means better efficiency and lower utility bills.  The US Department of Energy will enforce 13 SEER air conditioner standards as of January 2006. This means that all air conditioners manufactured after this date must be 13 SEER or higher.
Split System  A refrigeration or air conditioning system in which the condenser and evaporator are in separate locations joined by refrigerant piping.  Show Me
Zoning  The practice of heating and cooling areas within a structure independently of each other.