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What Is AC, HVAC & HVAC-R?
EXCELLENCE IS NOT A SKILL, IT IS AN ATTITUDE!
Clearing Up the Confusion
In my 45 years in the HVAC industry, I’ve heard endless confusion about the terms AC, HVAC, and especially HVAC-R. That added “R” tends to trip people up.
Let’s clear it all up. Here’s what these terms actually mean—and why they matter when choosing the right service company.
What Does AC Really Mean?
AC stands for Air Conditioning, the most familiar and widely used term.
It was invented in 1902 by Willis Carrier — not to cool people, but to remove humidity from a printing plant. Carrier passed air over water cooled coils, causing water droplets to form and drain away, leaving the air dry and cooler. This process is known as dehumidification by refrigeration.
Key Functions of AC:
Removes humidity
Lowers air temperature
Filters dust and particles
Over time, Air Conditioning became the standard for cooling homes and businesses. While some systems today use geothermal or solar methods, traditional AC systems still dominate due to cost and availability so we will consider them beyond the scope of this explanation..
What Is HVAC?
HVAC expands on AC by including Heating and Ventilation, forming the full acronym:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.
This broader term is used more often in commercial environments or larger homes with complex systems. It refers to systems that control temperature, airflow, and indoor air quality.
What Does HVAC-R Add?
HVAC-R (also written HVACR, HVAC&R, or HVAC/R) adds Refrigeration to the mix.
This term typically applies to restaurants, grocery stores, medical facilities, and commercial buildings with walk-in coolers, freezers, or chillers.
It means your technician understands the full scope of heating, cooling, air movement, and commercial refrigeration systems—not just residential air conditioner units.
Sun State HVAC Covers It All
At Sun State HVAC, we’re true experts in AC, HVAC, and HVAC-R services. Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or restaurant owner, we have the knowledge and experience to handle everything from residential tune-ups to full-scale refrigeration systems.
Let Us Get You Comfortable!
Click Schedule HVAC Maintenance button to book your system tune-up today.
(602) 867-9480Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, and other Service Areas.
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