REPORT MODULE OUTLINE

UTILITIES 1

HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) SYSTEM

1st Week of November

Discussed by:
Cortez, Ian
Corpuz, Hazel Ann P.
Geretape, Rhyna Savistkaya M.
Panes, Keith John Paul P.
BSCE – 3B

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

Objectives:

1. To understand the basic terminologies and definitions related to HVAC

systems.

2. To identify and describe HVAC systems used in small and large buildings.

3. To explore new trends and emerging technologies in HVAC design and

operation.

4. To recognize the importance of energy efficiency and sustainable practices in

HVAC systems.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is a system

designed to provide thermal comfort and acceptable indoor air quality for building
occupants. In small buildings — such as houses, small offices, or small
commercial spaces — HVAC systems are simpler and more compact compared
to those used in large buildings. These systems are easier to install, maintain,
and operate, while still ensuring comfortable indoor environments.

Purpose of HVAC in Small Buildings

HVAC systems in small buildings serve the following purposes:

• Heating: To keep indoor spaces warm during cold weather.

• Cooling: To maintain comfortable temperatures during hot weather.

• Ventilation: To bring in fresh air and remove stale air, odors, and
pollutants.

• Humidity Control: To maintain proper moisture levels in the air for comfort
and health.
Common Types of HVAC Systems for Small Buildings

There are several HVAC systems suitable for small buildings, depending on size,
layout, and budget:

a. Split-Type Air Conditioning System

• Description: The most common system for homes and small offices. It has
an indoor unit (evaporator) and an outdoor unit (condenser). See

• Function: Provides cooling and sometimes heating (inverter type).

• Advantages:

o Easy to install.

o Energy-efficient.

o Quiet operation.

• Disadvantages:

o Each room needs its own indoor unit.

o Outdoor space needed for the condenser.

 b. Packaged HVAC Unit

• Description: Combines all components (compressor, condenser, and

evaporator) into a single cabinet.

• Function: Suitable for small commercial buildings or single-story

structures.

• Advantages:

o Compact and space-saving.

o Easier maintenance.

• Disadvantages:

 Less efficient for multi-room setups.

c.

Window-Type Air Conditioner

• Description: A single unit installed through a window or wall opening.

• Function: Provides cooling and sometimes heating (reversible type).

• Advantages:
o Low cost.

o Simple installation.

• Disadvantages:

o Noisy.

o Limited cooling coverage.

Terms and Definitions

TERMS DEFINITIONS PICTURE

HVAC (Heating, A system that
Ventilation, and Air provides heating,
Conditioning) cooling, and
ventilation to
maintain indoor
comfort and air
quality.
 A device that
Thermostat controls and
maintains a desired
temperature in a
space by turning
heating or cooling
systems on or off.
A chemical
substance that
Refrigerant absorbs and
releases heat in the
cooling process of
an air conditioner or
refrigerator.

Evaporator Coil The part of the

HVAC system that
absorbs heat from
indoor air.

Condenser Coil The component

that releases the
absorbed heat to
the outside air.
Compressor A mechanical
device that pumps
and compresses
the refrigerant
through the system.

Ventilation The process of

supplying fresh air
to an indoor space
and removing stale
or contaminated air.

Ductwork A network of air

passages used to
distribute air from
the HVAC system
throughout the
building.

Energy Efficiency A measure of how

Ratio (EER) efficiently an air
conditioning system
operates; higher
EER means better
efficiency.
Mini-Split System A type of HVAC
system with
separate indoor
and outdoor units
that does not
require ducts.
 HVAC Systems for Large Buildings

Introduction

In large buildings such as hospitals, malls, schools, hotels, or office towers,

HVAC systems are much more complex than those in small buildings. They
must serve multiple zones, large spaces, and hundreds or even thousands of
people at once. These systems ensure comfort, safety, and energy efficiency
across the entire building.

Purpose of HVAC in Large Buildings

HVAC systems in large buildings serve the same main purposes as in smaller
ones, but on a larger scale:

 Heating: To provide warmth during cold seasons.

 Cooling: To maintain comfortable indoor temperatures in hot conditions.
 Ventilation: To remove carbon dioxide, odors, and pollutants, replacing
them with fresh air.
 Humidity Control: To balance moisture levels and prevent mold or
dryness.
 Air Filtration: To remove dust and harmful particles for better indoor air
quality.

These systems are also important for energy conservation, fire safety, and
health standards, especially in public and commercial structures.

Common Types of HVAC Systems for Large Buildings

a. Centralized HVAC System

Description: A large, single system that provides

heating, cooling, and ventilation for the entire
building.
 Components: Central plant with chillers,
boilers, air handling units (AHUs), cooling
towers, and duct networks.
 Advantages:
o High efficiency for large spaces.
o Easy to control centrally.
 Disadvantages:
o High installation cost.
o Complex maintenance.

b. Variable Air Volume (VAV) System

 Description: Supplies
constant air temperature but
adjusts the air volume
delivered to different zones.
 Advantages:
o Energy-efficient.
 o Provides individual zone control.
 Disadvantages:
o Requires complex duct and control systems.

c. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) System

 Description: Uses refrigerant

as the cooling and heating
medium and allows multiple
indoor units to be connected
to one outdoor unit.
 Advantages:
o Precise temperature
control per zone.
o Energy-efficient and
flexible.
 Disadvantages:
o Expensive installation.
o Requires skilled technicians.

d. Chilled Water System

 Description: Uses water as the

medium to absorb and transfer
heat. Water is chilled by chillers
and distributed through pipes to air
handling units.

 Advantages:
 o Suitable for very large spaces (malls, airports, hospitals).
o Stable and efficient for continuous operation.
 Disadvantages:
o High setup cost.
o Requires mechanical room and cooling tower.

e. Rooftop Unit (RTU) or Packaged Unit

 Description: Large self-contained units installed on the roof or outdoor

area.
 Advantages:
o Saves interior space.
o Easier to maintain since all
components are in one unit.
 Disadvantages:
o Suitable mainly for medium-
sized buildings.
o Can be noisy if not insulated
properly.
Major Components of Large Building HVAC Systems

Component Example Function

Cools water that circulates

Chiller through the building for air
conditioning.

Produces hot water or

Boiler
steam for heating.

Removes heat from the

Cooling Tower water used in the cooling
process.

Air Handling Circulates and conditions air

Unit (AHU) within the system.
Component Example Function

VAV Box

Controls airflow to maintain

comfort in individual zones.

Ducts and
Diffusers
Distribute conditioned air
throughout the building.

Thermostats
and Sensors

Monitor and control

temperature and humidity.

Building
Management
Central computer that
System (BMS)
monitors and manages all
HVAC equipment.
How HVAC Systems Work in Large Buildings

1. Air Intake: Fresh air enters through air handling units (AHUs).
2. Cooling/Heating:
o Cooling is done by chillers or VRF systems.
o Heating is provided by boilers or heat pumps.
3. Air Distribution: Conditioned air is moved through ducts and diffusers to
each room or zone.
4. Ventilation: Stale air is exhausted while maintaining air pressure balance.
5. Control System: The Building Management System (BMS) adjusts
airflow, temperature, and humidity based on sensors and schedules.
 Factors to Consider When Designing Large Building HVAC Systems

1. Building Size and Layout: Determines zoning and ductwork design.

2. Occupant Load: Number of people and their activities affect
cooling/heating needs.
3. Climate and Weather Conditions: Dictate system type and insulation
requirements.
4. Energy Efficiency: Systems should minimize energy use while
maintaining comfort.
5. Maintenance and Accessibility: Equipment should be placed where
service is easy.
6. Noise and Vibration Control: Especially important in offices, hospitals,
and schools.
7. Air Quality Standards: Must meet local and international codes (e.g.,
ASHRAE 62.1).

Maintenance of Large HVAC Systems

Regular maintenance ensures safety, comfort, and system efficiency. Common

practices include:

 Checking and cleaning air filters and ducts.

 Inspecting chillers, boilers, and pumps.
 Monitoring refrigerant and water levels.
 Servicing fans, belts, and motors.
 Calibrating sensors and thermostats.
 Regular BMS software updates and monitoring.

Advantages of Large Building HVAC Systems

 Provides consistent comfort in all zones.

  Allows centralized monitoring and control.
 Improves air quality and ventilation.
 Supports energy-saving technologies.
 Reduces carbon footprint when properly designed.

Disadvantages or Limitations

 High initial and operating costs.

 Requires skilled technicians to install and maintain.
 Occupies large space (mechanical rooms, ducts, cooling towers).
 Downtime may affect large areas during repair.

Conclusion

HVAC systems in large buildings play a vital role in ensuring comfort, health,
and energy efficiency for many occupants. These systems are complex, involving
chillers, boilers, AHUs, and control systems like BMS to coordinate heating,
cooling, and ventilation across multiple zones.

Choosing the right system — such as VRF, VAV, or chilled water systems —
depends on the building design, function, and climate. With proper design
and maintenance, large building HVAC systems can provide reliable
performance, energy savings, and environmental benefits for many years.
TERMS AND DEFINITION

Term Definition

Equipment that circulates and regulates air as part of a

Air Handling Unit (AHU)
heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning system.

Device that heats water or produces steam for heating

Boiler
systems.

Building Management Centralized computer system used to control and

System (BMS) monitor HVAC and other building operations.

Machine that removes heat from a liquid for use in air

Chiller
conditioning systems.

Structure that cools down water used in HVAC

Cooling Tower
systems by exposing it to air.

Variable Air Volume HVAC system that varies the airflow to maintain a
(VAV) constant temperature.

Variable Refrigerant Advanced system that uses refrigerant flow control to

Flow (VRF) condition multiple zones independently.

Network of tubes or passages that deliver air

Ductwork
throughout a building.

Heat Exchanger Device that transfers heat between two or more fluids.

Device that senses and regulates temperature in a

Thermostat
space.
 NEW TRENDS IN HVAC SYSTEM
In recent years, the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
industry has undergone significant advancements due to rapid technological
development and the growing demand for energy efficiency and environmental
sustainability. Modern HVAC systems are now designed to be smarter, greener,
and more efficient by incorporating automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and
eco-friendly technologies. These new trends aim to provide greater comfort,
reduce energy costs, and promote cleaner air for healthier living and working
environments.

1. Smart and AI-Driven HVAC Systems

Modern HVAC systems are now integrated with smart
sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically
adjust temperature, humidity, and air circulation. These
systems can learn user behavior, detect problems early,
and provide predictive maintenance, reducing system
failure and energy waste.

2. Eco-Friendly and Low-GWP Refrigerants

New HVAC designs use refrigerants with low Global
Warming Potential (GWP) such as R-32 and R-454B.
These refrigerants are more environmentally friendly and
comply with international regulations that aim to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions

3. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) ImprovementAir quality has

become a major focus in HVAC innovation.
Advanced systems now include HEPA filters, UV-C
lights, and activated carbon filters to remove harmful
particles, bacteria, and viruses. This ensures cleaner
and healthier air, especially in crowded indoor spaces.
 4. Energy-Efficient and Electrified Systems
The adoption of inverter technology, variable-speed
compressors, and high-performance heat pumps helps
minimize energy consumption. Electrified HVAC systems
also support the global movement toward cleaner,
renewable energy sources instead of fossil fuels.

5. Renewable Energy Integration

Some HVAC systems are now compatible with
renewable energy sources such as solar power. This
trend promotes sustainability and reduces operational
costs, especially in regions with high electricity demand.

6. Modular and Scalable System Design

Modern HVAC systems are designed to be modular and flexible. This means they
can be easily expanded or upgraded depending on the building’s size and
changing requirements, which saves installation and maintenance time.

7. Predictive Maintenance and IoT Monitoring

Through Internet of Things (IoT) technology, system performance can be
monitored in real time. Predictive maintenance alerts technicians before
equipment failure occurs, improving reliability and lifespan.

The continuous development of HVAC technology leads to systems that

are more efficient, sustainable, and intelligent. By integrating artificial intelligence,
renewable energy, and eco-friendly materials, modern HVAC systems not only
enhance comfort but also help conserve energy and protect the environment.
 ENERGY EFFICCIENCY EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS

Why energy-efficiency matters in HVAC?

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning) systems are major

energy consumers in buildings; improving their efficiency can lower
energy bills, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve occupant
comfort. ([Link])

Upgrading to more efficient equipment and optimising system

operation over its lifecycle (20-25 years) has substantial savings
potential. ([Link])

ENERGY-EFFICIENT HVAC EQUIPMENT

1. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems

Variable Refrigerant Flow systems are

advanced HVAC systems that use
refrigerant as the cooling and heating
medium. They precisely control the amount
of refrigerant flowing to multiple indoor units
based on the specific needs of each zone.
This allows different rooms to be heated or
cooled simultaneously, improving comfort
and significantly reducing energy waste
compared to conventional systems.

2. Inverter Air Conditioners

Inverter air conditioners use a variable-speed

compressor that automatically adjusts its
operation according to the cooling or heating
demand. Instead of turning the compressor on
and off repeatedly like non-inverter units, it
maintains a steady temperature more efficiently,
saving up to 30–50% in energy consumption
while providing quieter and smoother operation.
3. High-efficiency chillers and heat pumps
utilize advanced technologies such as
variable-speed compressors, magnetic
bearings, and eco-friendly refrigerants. Chillers
remove heat from water for cooling large
spaces, while heat pumps transfer heat from
one area to another for both heating and
cooling. These systems operate at higher
coefficients of performance (COP), meaning
they deliver more heating or cooling output per unit of energy consumed.

4. Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs)

Energy Recovery Ventilators are systems

designed to improve indoor air quality and
energy efficiency by transferring heat and
moisture between incoming and outgoing air
streams. During cooling seasons, they use
exhaust air to pre-cool the fresh incoming air,
and during heating seasons, they pre-warm it.
This process reduces the workload on the
HVAC system and saves energy while
maintaining proper ventilation.

5. High-efficiency motors and fans

often use Electronically Commutated Motors (ECMs),
which combine the advantages of AC and DC motors.
ECMs automatically adjust their speed to the system’s
requirements, using less electricity while maintaining
optimal airflow. They also produce less noise and heat,
extending equipment lifespan and improving system
reliability.
ENERGY-EFFICIENT CONTROL SYSTEM

6. Variable Frequency Drives

are electronic devices that control the speed of electric
motors by varying the frequency and voltage of the
power supply. In HVAC systems, VFDs are commonly
used on fans, pumps, and compressors to match motor
speed with actual demand. This reduces energy waste,
prevents mechanical stress, and improves overall
system efficiency.

7. A Building Automation System

is a centralized control platform that integrates
HVAC, lighting, and other building systems. It uses
sensors, controllers, and software to monitor indoor
conditions and automatically adjust temperature,
humidity, and ventilation for maximum efficiency
and comfort. BAS helps track energy consumption,
detect faults, and optimize building performance.

8. Demand-Controlled Ventilation
adjusts the amount of outdoor air brought into
a building based on occupancy levels. Using
CO₂ sensors or motion detectors, the system
increases ventilation when people are present
and reduces it when spaces are unoccupied.
This helps maintain air quality while minimizing
unnecessary energy use from heating or cooling
excess air.

9. Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are digital devices that use
sensors, Wi-Fi connectivity, and learning algorithms
to automatically control HVAC settings. They adapt to
user schedules, detect occupancy, and adjust
temperatures for energy savings. Users can also
monitor and change settings remotely through mobile
apps, making temperature management more
efficient and convenient.

10. Zoning control systems

divide a building into separate areas or “zones,”
each with its own thermostat and control
damper. This allows occupants to heat or cool
specific areas as needed without conditioning
the entire building. By providing personalized
comfort and preventing energy waste in unused
spaces, zoning greatly improves overall HVAC
efficiency.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT DESIGN AND OPERATION PRACTICES

Proper Insulation and Duct Sealing - Prevent air leakage and loss of
conditioned air.

Regular Maintenance - Cleaning coils, filters, and sensors ensures efficient

performance.

Use of Renewable Energy Sources - Solar-assisted HVAC or geothermal heat

pumps.

Energy Management Systems (EMS) - Provide data analytics on HVAC

performance for continuous improvement.

BENEFITS OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN HVAC SYSTEMS

 Reduced energy consumption and utility costs.

  Lower carbon emissions and environmental impact.
 Enhanced comfort and indoor air quality.
 Extended equipment lifespan and fewer breakdowns.

TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

Term Definition
A centralized control platform that integrates HVAC, lighting,
and other building systems. It uses sensors, controllers, and
Building
software to monitor indoor conditions and automatically
Automation
adjust temperature, humidity, and ventilation for maximum
Systems (BAS)
efficiency and comfort. BAS helps track energy consumption,
detect faults, and optimize building performance.
Adjusts the amount of outdoor air brought into a building
based on occupancy levels. Using CO₂ sensors or motion
Demand-
detectors, the system increases ventilation when people are
Controlled
present and reduces it when spaces are unoccupied,
Ventilation (DCV)
maintaining air quality while minimizing unnecessary energy
use.
Improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency by
Energy Recovery transferring heat and moisture between incoming and
Ventilators outgoing air streams. During cooling, they pre-cool incoming
(ERVs) air; during heating, they pre-warm it — reducing HVAC
workload and saving energy.
Use advanced technologies such as variable-speed
compressors, magnetic bearings, and eco-friendly
High-Efficiency
refrigerants. Chillers remove heat from water for cooling large
Chillers and Heat
spaces, while heat pumps transfer heat for both heating and
Pumps
cooling. They operate at higher coefficients of performance
(COP), meaning more output per unit of energy.
Use Electronically Commutated Motors that combine AC and
High-Efficiency
DC motor benefits. ECMs automatically adjust speed to meet
Motors and Fans
system requirements, reducing power use, noise, and heat
(ECMs)
while extending equipment lifespan and reliability.
Use a variable-speed compressor that adjusts operation
according to cooling or heating demand. Instead of frequently
Inverter Air
turning on and off, they maintain a steady temperature
Conditioners
efficiently, saving 30–50% in energy and providing quieter
operation.
Smart Digital devices with sensors, Wi-Fi connectivity, and learning
Thermostats algorithms that automatically control HVAC settings. They
 Term Definition
adapt to user schedules, detect occupancy, and adjust
temperatures for energy savings. They can also be managed
remotely via mobile apps.
Electronic devices that control the speed of electric motors by
Variable
varying frequency and voltage. In HVAC systems, they’re
Frequency Drives
used on fans, pumps, and compressors to match speed with
(VFDs)
demand, reducing energy waste and mechanical wear.
Advanced systems that use refrigerant as the cooling and
Variable heating medium. They precisely control refrigerant flow to
Refrigerant Flow multiple indoor units based on each zone’s needs, allowing
(VRF) Systems simultaneous heating and cooling while reducing energy
waste.
Divide a building into separate “zones,” each with its own
Zoning Control thermostat and control damper. This allows heating or
Systems cooling of specific areas only when needed, preventing
energy waste and providing personalized comfort.
REFERENCES

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

(2023). HVAC systems and equipment handbook. ASHRAE.

Carrier Corporation. (2022). Commercial HVAC system guide. Carrier Global

Corporation. [Link]

Daikin Industries, Ltd. (2023). VRV/VRF air conditioning systems for commercial
buildings. Daikin Global. [Link]

[Link]. (2023). Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). U.S.

Department of Energy. [Link]

Honeywell International Inc. (2023). Building management systems (BMS)

overview. Honeywell Building Technologies. [Link]

Johnson Controls. (2023). Central plant optimization: Chiller and boiler systems
for large buildings. Johnson Controls. [Link]

Lennox International Inc. (2023). HVAC solutions for commercial and industrial
buildings. Lennox. [Link]

Trane Technologies. (2023). Large commercial HVAC systems and applications.

Trane Technologies. [Link]