What is the role of a heat exchanger in HVAC systems?

The role of a heat exchanger in HVAC systems is critical, as it functions to transfer heat between two or more fluids without allowing them to mix. This process is vital for maintaining the desired temperatures in a building while maximizing energy efficiency.

In HVAC applications, a heat exchanger can be used for heating or cooling purposes. For example, in a heating system, hot water or refrigerant passes through one side of the heat exchanger while air or another fluid flows on the other side, allowing heat to transfer from the heated fluid to the cooler fluid. This enables the system to warm up air that will be circulated throughout the space without the two fluids actually coming into contact with one another.

This principle helps in recovering and reusing energy within the system, which reduces overall energy consumption and operational costs. Additionally, since the fluids do not mix, it maintains the integrity and quality of each fluid, which is especially important in applications involving sensitive liquids or gases.