While some homes HVAC system are heated and cooled with boilers, radiant floor heating, heat pumps, ductless mini splits or window air conditioners, let’s explore the eight basic parts of a home HVAC system containing the traditional furnace and split-system air conditioner combination.

The Main Parts of an HVAC System

Thermostat

As the brain behind a home HVAC system, the thermostat deserves the first mention. It’s essentially a thermometer with a direct connection to heating and cooling components, allowing it to control when the furnace and air conditioner come on.

Many types of thermostats are available today, including programmable models that automatically change the temperature based on the schedule you set. You can also decide to install multiple thermostats for zoning purposes.

Evaporator Coil

Last on our list of parts of the HVAC system is the evaporator coil. Also known as the evaporator core, this is where the refrigerant or coolant absorbs heat from the air.

This important part of your HVAC system is located below the blower fan, near the air handler. And they are usually made from good heat-conducting metals such as aluminum and copper.

Heat Exchanger

A key component of the furnace, heat exchangers quickly warm the air that’s brought into the furnace either from outside the home or through the its ductwork. Heat exchangers are either fueled by natural gas and use gas burners or powered by electricity and heat air using electric coils.

Compressor

In contrast, the compressor circulates refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coil. Additionally, liquid refrigerant is also converted to gaseous form, and vice versa with the help of compressor. As a rule, refrigerant is in the form of a gas, which is its natural state. In order to increase its temperature, the compressor compresses the gas. The cooling process begins in earnest when it moves on to the condenser.