VAV

Definition

A Variable Air Volume (VAV) system is a type of HVAC system that varies the airflow at a constant temperature to maintain the desired indoor environment.

Purpose

The VAV system provides efficient temperature control and energy savings by adjusting the volume of air delivered to different zones or rooms based on their specific cooling or heating needs.

Examples of Use

• Office Buildings: Implementing VAV systems to provide personalized climate control for different areas within an office, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency.
• Hospitals: Using VAV systems to maintain precise temperature and air quality conditions in various hospital zones, such as operating rooms and patient wards.
• Schools: Installing VAV systems in educational institutions to regulate the climate in classrooms, auditoriums, and other facilities.

Related Terms

• HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems that regulate indoor climate.
• Constant Air Volume (CAV): An HVAC system that delivers a constant airflow while varying the temperature of the air.
• Thermostat: A device that controls the temperature in a building by regulating the HVAC system.

Notes

VAV systems are more energy-efficient compared to CAV systems as they reduce the airflow when the full capacity is not needed. They also provide better zoning capabilities, allowing for more precise temperature control in different areas of a building.