HVAC and Building Mechanical Systems Flashcards
6 cards from real Building Engineering practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 HVAC and Building Mechanical Systems flashcards as text
What is the purpose of a building automation system (BAS) in HVAC operations?
Answer: To centrally monitor and control all mechanical and electrical building systems
A BAS integrates HVAC, lighting, fire safety, and other systems onto one platform for centralized monitoring, scheduling, and energy optimization.
Which type of pump is most commonly used to circulate chilled water and hot water in HVAC hydronic systems?
Answer: Centrifugal pump
Centrifugal pumps are standard in hydronic HVAC systems due to their simplicity, reliability, and suitability for continuous variable-flow operation.
What is the primary purpose of a cooling tower in a central HVAC plant?
Answer: To reject condenser heat from chillers to the atmosphere
A cooling tower uses evaporative cooling to dissipate the heat removed from the building by the chiller's refrigeration cycle into the outdoor air.
What does SEER measure for residential and light commercial HVAC equipment?
Answer: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio — cooling efficiency over an entire season
SEER measures the total cooling output divided by total electrical energy input over a typical cooling season, with higher values indicating greater efficiency.
What type of HVAC system delivers both heating and cooling through a single piping loop using a heat pump?
Answer: Water-source heat pump system
Water-source heat pump systems use a common water loop where units can simultaneously heat some zones by extracting heat added by cooling units in other zones.
What is the purpose of minimum outside air requirements in HVAC design?
Answer: To dilute indoor contaminants and provide oxygen for occupants
Minimum outside air ensures that CO2, VOCs, and other indoor-generated contaminants are diluted to acceptable levels for occupant health and comfort.