What does the term “latent heat” refer to in HVAC systems?

What does the term “latent heat” refer to in HVAC systems?

• A. Energy required for phase changes
• B. Energy lost during heat exchange
• C. Energy used by HVAC machinery
• D. Energy saved during system operation

Answer: (A)

The term "latent heat" refers specifically to the energy required for phase changes of a substance without a change in temperature. In HVAC systems, this concept is particularly relevant when dealing with the processes of evaporation and condensation in refrigerants. For instance, when a refrigerant evaporates, it absorbs a significant amount of heat from its surroundings, which is the latent heat of vaporization. During condensation, the refrigerant releases that heat back into the environment. Understanding latent heat is crucial for efficiently designing and operating HVAC systems, as it informs how effective heat transfer occurs during these phase changes, impacting the overall efficiency and performance of the system.

The term "latent heat" refers specifically to the energy required for phase changes of a substance without a change in temperature. In HVAC systems, this concept is particularly relevant when dealing with the processes of evaporation and condensation in refrigerants. For instance, when a refrigerant evaporates, it absorbs a significant amount of heat from its surroundings, which is the latent heat of vaporization. During condensation, the refrigerant releases that heat back into the environment. Understanding latent heat is crucial for efficiently designing and operating HVAC systems, as it informs how effective heat transfer occurs during these phase changes, impacting the overall efficiency and performance of the system.