Terms and Definitions

HVAC Terms:

1. AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): A measurement of a furnace’s heating efficiency. The higher the AFUE percentage, the more efficient the furnace.

2. BTU (British Thermal Unit): A measurement of heat energy. One BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

3. Compressor: A component in the air conditioning system that increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant.

4. Ductwork: The system of ducts (large tubes or channels) used to transport air from an HVAC system throughout a building.

5. SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measures the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. A higher SEER rating indicates greater energy efficiency.

6. Condenser: The outdoor component of an air conditioner or heat pump that releases or collects heat, depending on the season.

7. Evaporator Coil: A network of tubes filled with refrigerant that remove heat and moisture from the air as the refrigerant evaporates.

8. Filter: A device used to remove dust and other particles from air to protect the HVAC system and improve indoor air quality.

9. Heat Exchanger: A component that transfers heat from one fluid (like air or refrigerant) to another.

10. Refrigerant: A substance that absorbs heat from the environment, often used in air conditioning and refrigeration.

Plumbing Terms:

1. Backflow: The unwanted reversal of the flow of water (or other substances) back into the potable (drinkable) water supply.

2. Flapper Valve: The part in the toilet tank responsible for allowing water to flow into the bowl when flushed and then seals to allow the tank to refill.

3. P-Trap: A U-shaped section of pipe under sinks that traps debris and prevents sewer gases from entering a building.

4. Vent Stack: A vertical pipe that allows sewage gases and odors to be vented out above the building, ensuring the drain system remains at atmospheric pressure.

5. Water Hammer: A loud, thudding noise in pipes caused by a sudden stop or redirection of water flow.

6. Ball Valve: A valve that uses a spherical disc to control the flow of water.

7. Faucet Aerator: A device attached to the end of a faucet that introduces air into the water flow to reduce splashing.

8. Main: The principal pipe responsible for delivering water or gas to a building.

9. O-Ring: A circular gasket used to prevent the escape of liquid or gas.

10. Sump Pump: A pump used to remove accumulated water from basements and crawlspaces.

Electrical Terms:

1. Ampere (Amp): The unit for measuring the rate of flow of electric current.

2. Circuit Breaker: A device designed to stop the flow of current in an electric circuit as a safety measure.

3. Conductor: A material, typically metal, that allows electricity to flow through it easily.

4. Ground: A connection between an electrical device and the Earth. It ensures safety by directing any stray electrical currents into the ground.

5. Voltage (Volt): A measure of electric potential, with one volt being the potential difference that would drive a current of one ampere through a resistance of one ohm.

6. Watt: The unit of power. It represents the rate of energy consumption or production. A watt is one joule of energy per second.

7. Conduit: A tube or trough for protecting electric wiring.

8. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter): A device that protects against electrical shock by breaking the circuit when it detects an imbalance between outgoing and incoming current.

9. Junction Box: An enclosure for connecting wires.

10. Resistor: An electronic component that restricts the flow of electric current.

11. Transformer: A device that alters the voltage of an electrical current, either increasing or decreasing it.

12. NEC (National Electrical Code): A standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment in the United States.