Glossary of Terms

Our industry can be confusing with its industry terms and acronyms. Perhaps this glossary will help you with some of the most common terms you might come across when dealing with our industry.

A

Alternating Current (AC) - as applied to an electrical current. The electrical polarity is constantly changing state. Meaning the current is always moving from positive (+) to negative (-) at regular intervals or cycles. Your home current is usually 60Hz (see Hertz) in other words the electricity flows at 60 cycles per second.

Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) - a group of over 4,000 air conditioning contractors who work together to improve our industry, promote good practices, and keep homes and buildings safe, clean and comfortable.

Acoustical - relates to sound, the science of sound, or a sense of hearing.

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) - a measurement used to rate furnace efficiency by dividing the ratio of heat output by heat input.

American Gas Association, Inc. (AGA) - an advocacy organization that acts on behalf of its members in both federal and state regulatory arenas.

Air Conditioner (A/C) - a device that can change humidity levels, temperature or quality of air inside a building.

Airflow Volume - measured in cubic feet per minute (cfm), the amount of air circulated in a given space or area.

Air Handler - parts of an indoor comfort system including the fan-blower, filter and housing.

Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) - the trade association representing manufacturers of air conditioning, heating and commercial refrigeration equipment. AHRI’s 300+ member companies account for more than 90 percent of the residential and commercial air conditioning, space heating, water heating, and commercial refrigeration equipment manufactured and sold in North America.

American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) - advances technology to serve humanity and promote a sustainable world. Membership is open to any person associated with the field.

B

British Thermal Unit (BTU) - measurement of the amount of heat required to raise or lower the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit at one atmosphere pressure.

British Thermal Unit per hour (BTU/h) - a BTUh or BTU/h rating indicates the cooling capacity of an air conditioner. Generally speaking an air conditioner rated or called a 1 ton air conditioner may emit up to 12,000 BTU/h to cool up to 500 sq. ft.

Burner - a device that facilitates the combustion of air and gas.

Burner Orifice - an opening in a burner where gas or fuel flows prior to combustion.