Introduction

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Ranging from the very simple, such as opening a window to provide fresh air, to the extremely complex, such as the intricately coordinated and computer monitored environmental controls of large buildings like hospitals and museums, the field of HVAC, or heating, ventilation and air conditioning, is perhaps one of the most valuable and overlooked aspects of our modern building structures.

In this introductory text we will discuss the basic principles of heating and cooling, as well as the principle of refrigeration and how it relates to air conditioning. Particular focus will be given to common methods of heating and cooling residential homes.