HVACR

HVACR is an acronym for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. It refers to the technology, equipment, and methods used to control the indoor environment in buildings and facilities, addressing temperature, humidity, air quality, and thermal comfort.

Heating equipment ranges from furnaces and boilers to heat pumps. Ventilation provides fresh air and contaminant removal through ducts and air handling units. Air conditioning covers packaged and split units, chillers, and cooling coils. Refrigeration handles cycles used to preserve food and support industrial processes. Many systems integrate these functions and are controlled by building automation systems.

Design, installation, operation, and maintenance aim for reliable performance, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort. Standards from ASHRAE, ISO, and EN guide sizing, ventilation rates, filtration, and safety. Refrigerants are a key concern due to environmental impact, leading to phase-downs of high-global-warming-potential substances under international agreements such as the Kigali Amendment.

The field spans residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, including new construction and building retrofits. Advances include variable-speed drives, energy recovery, economizers, and smart controls. Ongoing focus areas include improving indoor air quality, reducing energy use, and maintaining resilience in the face of climate change.