HVAC tools
Getting the right HVAC tools and gauges is as important as having the right ingredients in cooking. Furthermore, utilizing the right tools is one big step in having the right system. Thus, it is advisable for HVAC practitioners, especially for beginners, to know what basic tools are currently used today.
One basic HVAC tool is the wrench. This device is used to tighten or loosen bolts (usually those with hex heads) and nuts. There are many kinds of wrenches: open-end, combination, adjustable open-end, flare nut. Most HVAC technicians prefer using the ratchet-type box wrench. They are excellent time savers as they immediately tighten or loosen around nuts and bolts. For refrigeration and air-conditioning systems, however, they go for the flare nuts. One note for you, though. The best ones are those that
are made of alloy steel because they are tough. You also check the shape of the opening, see if they can easily hold and release nuts and bolts, as well as the grip.
For HVAC systems, you also need a screwdriver. To allow it to endure twisting torque, choose a screwdriver with tempered tips. Good ones are also with steel shafts. In using this tool, you have to remember some few things. First, a screwdriver can never replace a chisel or a pry bar. Select the most appropriate device needed at the moment. Second, it is necessary that you maintain the form of the screwdriver tip to avoid damage to the implement or injury to yourself.
Pliers are used to hold little objects or to bend or cut wires. Just like the other tools mentioned, there a variety of pliers available that come in different shapes and sizes. The most ideal for pipe work is the locking-type pliers (Vise-Grips). These pliers have the most effective holding power. Tension degrees are also adjustable. Pliers should never replace wrenches.
Another classic HVAC tool is the hammer, specifically a duct hammer. This is used when installing ducts and air distribution systems. Generally, its face is square and has a chisel-like back. In selecting the right hammer, its handle should be made of steel, wood, or fiberglass. Otherwise, more-than-enough pressure will bend or even break it.
A hacksaw can cut piping materials but not with the ones used for piping circuits that carry refrigerants. Other valuable tools are drills, meters, and gauges.
You can go to your nearest hardware store or shop online when purchasing HVAC tools. There is an extensive list of HVAC tools manufacturers and sellers that offer the best buys and quality products. HVACtool.com carries the widest range of HVAC products from various manufacturers like Amprobe, Fieldpiece, Maglite, to name a few.
Yet technology is starting to play a key role in the development of HVAC tools. There are already software programs available like Elite and Design-Build 6.0 that can do accurate load calculations and duct sizing, among others, without using any more hand tools. Furthermore, you can practically build your desired HVAC system from scratch, allowing you greater freedom to choose and identify other much-needed HVAC tools.
The truth is it is improbable and impossible to build something without anything to help you get by. In installing and even maintaining an effective and proper HVAC system, you need to have the right kinds of tools-that is, they are really useful in helping you implement your plan. And since they are the likely the same devices you are going to use in the future, you need to take care of them. They should always be cleaned and not utilized inappropriately. Handling them with care will not only make them long-lasting
but, it will also protect you from injury or accidents.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
What is HVAC? You’ve probably heard of the term from different contractors,
engineers, or perhaps colleagues and business partners; but you’re still
wondering what the initialism means. Well, HVAC (“H-V-A-C” or “H-VAK”) stands
for Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning—three closely related fundamental
functions found in homes, offices, and other building structures.
The HVAC system is also known as climate control. This is because these three
functions are essential in maintaining comfort in every dwelling.
Three Functions of
HVAC
Heating is significant in maintaining adequate room
temperature especially during colder weather conditions. There are two
classifications of heating: local and central. The latter is more commonly used
because it is more economical. Furnace or boiler, heat pump, and radiator make
up the heating system.
Ventilation, on the other hand, is associated with air movement. There are
many types of ventilation, but they all function similarly. Ventilation is
necessary to allow carbon dioxide to go out and oxygen to get in, making sure
that people are inhaling fresh air. Stagnant air causes the spreading of
sickness, usually airborne, and allergies. But it is also essential to maintain
an efficient ventilation system, especially in the attics. Insufficient
ventilation usually promotes the growth of bacteria and fungi such as molds
because of high humidity. It will also decrease the effectiveness of rafter and
roof sheathing insulation because of water vapor condensation.
The air-conditioning system controls the heat as well as ventilation. They
often come in different sizes. Most air conditioners have large air ducts, so it
is better to check out the building first to see if they can be installed. Or
else, you can use the split system or remote coils. It is necessary, though,
that air ducts are properly cleaned. Pathogens thrive in dirty air ducts.
Return-air grills are also vulnerable to chemical, microbiological, and
radiological elements. Thus, HVAC return-air grill height should be that it is
not accessible but visible for any observation.
The Future of HVAC
How
has technology changed in the HVAC field? Well, using PLCs (programmable logic
controllers) in HVAC is the trend nowadays. But a great deal of development of
the HVAC system lies on the ever-changing technology and continuous innovation.
Companies are adopting wireless technology after they found out that networking
HVAC controllers, which often use sensors, can eventually cut installation and
labor costs. A lot of engineers are also focused on further improving this
technology through the use of mesh wireless setup, which will work for both the
wireless sensor and wireless controller networks. The only downside of this
could probably be the risk of being exposed to RF (radio frequency)
radiation.
The installation of an HVAC system is imperative if we want to achieve
maximum comfort and be healthy in our homes, office spaces, or other building
facilities. But you also need to consider the building size in installing an
HVAC system. Optimum efficiency and comfort level are best achieved if the
system is appropriate for the size. After all, any ineffective system usually
means more incurred costs in the future. You should also see to it that HVAC is
carefully integrated to the overall building design so other aspects needed for
proper operations, such as cabling, are not sacrificed. The beginning of HVAC is
not clear, though as early as second century, a lot of Roman cities were using a
central heating system known as hypocaust. This is further popularized during
the Industrial Revolution as big factories used it. Now most modern buildings
that you see have integrated HVAC.The primary use of HVAC is to regulate room temperature, humidity, and air
flow, ensuring that such elements remain within their acceptable ranges.
Effective control of such factors minimizes health-related risks. A very humid
atmosphere impairs the body’s ability to regulate body temperature as it
prevents the evaporation of sweat. High humidity also decreases physical
strength, which usually leads to fatigue. An unhealthy surrounding can also
affect people’s thinking abilities. Hypothermia, heat stroke, and hyperpyrexia,
among others, are some of the illnesses that may also occur.