Measurements of Length Linear measurements take place in one dimension and are absolute. Measurements are based on units of length. These lengths are pre-established and are constant. In America, lengths for measurement are established by the United States system. These originated from English units which were taken from the Roman and Anglo-Saxon era. From [...]
Conversion of Temperature Readings Temperature conversion is required in the HVAC field and technicians are expected to know how to use them. Manufacturers who make products for HVAC are in several different countries all around the world. Each of these countries will have their own preferred mathematical calculations and conversion metrics. Temperature conversion is a [...]
Temperature Defined Temperature measures the intensity of heat to be found in one molecule of a substance. According to molecular theory as it relates to heat, temperature actually shows the speed of motion of molecules being affected by a force upon it. Molecules are made up of atoms. These atoms have mobility. The speed at [...]
The Vortex Tube Vortex tube cooling is a technology that separates compressed gas into hot and cold streams. Pressurized gas is injected into a swirl chamber and accelerated so that it rotates. A conical nozzle at one end of the tube only allows the outer portions of the gas to exit. The other particles of [...]
Steam Jet Cooling Functioning Steam jet cooling calls for the use of high pressure steam that will cool water. This type of cooling is used in industry because cooling processes are very costly. The use of water as the coolant is highly efficient and less costly. In this system, steam is sent through a vacuum [...]
HVAC The final chapter of “This Old House, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning” concerns itself with the use of HVAC systems in homes. An explanation of HVAC is offered and the many types of HVAC systems are discussed. Evaporative coolers are also discussed with recommendations given for installation types. Heat pumps are explained and how [...]
Air Quality In this chapter of “This Old House, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning,” the authors busy themselves with explaining certain factors that can influence the air quality. They also concern themselves with the placement of the house and certain exterior design qualities. Homeowners are encouraged to keep the “envelope” of the home in good [...]
Cooling Tower Action Water cooling towers are used in commercial and residential applications to cool the water used in HVAC and refrigeration systems. Large volumes of water are used to keep condensers at right temperatures for a cooling effect. Tap water is used in these systems and instead of sending the water into a sewer [...]
Heating Water In this chapter of “This Old House, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning,” the authors concern themselves with water heaters. It is explained that heating water in an efficient manner is a mark of a civilized society. First, gas water heaters are discussed. The burner is located beneath the tank and natural gas is [...]
Direct Heat In this chapter of “This Old House, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning,” Richard Trethewey and Don Best inform the reader of the variety of direct heating systems available. Direct heat systems are space heaters, pipeless wall and floor furnaces, wood and gas fireplaces, wood stoves, radiant electric, and baseboard electric resistance heating. Baseboard [...]