Glossary: Explanations and Definitions of Terms

A

• AC Motor

  Defrosting describes the process of removing ice that forms on the heat exchangers of devices such as dehumidifiers or air conditioners. This happens automatically or manually in order to maintain the performance of the device. There are various defrosting methods, such as electric heating or hot gas defrosting.

• Adsorption Dryer

  An AC motor (alternating current motor) is powered by alternating current. It is commonly used in fans, air conditioners, and air purifiers because it is durable and low-maintenance. AC motors are inexpensive and provide stable performance at a constant speed.

• Air humidity

  Adsorption dryers remove moisture from the air by binding water molecules to a desiccant such as silica gel. They are particularly suitable for use at low temperatures, where conventional condensation dryers reach their limits.

• Air filter

  An air filter removes pollutants such as dust, pollen, and bacteria from the air. In air conditioners, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers, they help improve indoor air quality. There are various types, including HEPA, EPA, and activated carbon filters.

• Airflow

  Activated carbon filters absorb odors and pollutants from the air. They consist of porous carbon, which offers a large surface area to bind gases and impurities. They are often used in air purifiers.

• AISI

  AISI stands for "American Iron and Steel Institute" and refers to international standards for steel grades. AISI steels, as often used in dehumidifiers and air conditioners, guarantee durability and corrosion resistance.

• Activated Carbon Filter

  Construction heating refers to the use of heaters on construction sites to regulate temperatures and to continue construction work in cold weather. Mobile heaters such as electric fan heaters are often used.

• Axial Fan

  An axial fan moves air along the axis of the rotating blades. It is used in devices like fans and air conditioners to provide high air throughput at low pressures. Axial fans are ideal for applications that require uniform ventilation.

B

• Bypass Defrosting

  Bypass defrosting is a method in which the refrigerant is temporarily redirected around the evaporator to reduce ice formation. This method is commonly used in modern air conditioners and cooling systems.

C

• CO2 equivalent

  The CO2 equivalent is a unit of measurement that relates the climate impact of greenhouse gases to carbon dioxide (CO2). In air conditioning and ventilation technology, this value helps to assess the climate impact of refrigerants.

• Color

  COP stands for "Coefficient of Performance" and is a measure for heating or cooling systems. The COP value indicates the ratio of heat or cooling output to the energy input: the higher the value, the better this ratio.

• Compressor

  The compressor is a central component in cooling systems and air conditioners. It compresses the refrigerant, enabling heat transfer in the refrigeration cycle. Compressors come in different designs, such as piston, scroll, or rotary compressors.

• Condenser

  A DC motor is powered by direct current. It is characterized by precise controllability, which is why it is often used in modern devices such as fans or dehumidifiers.

• CFC

  The leak test checks whether a closed system, such as an air conditioner, has leaks through which refrigerant could escape. It is essential to prevent refrigerant from escaping.

• Compressor

  An EC motor (Electronically Commutated Motor) combines the advantages of AC and DC motors. It offers precise control. Due to electronic commutation, EC motors are quieter and longer-lasting, making them ideal for ventilation systems.

• Construction Heating

  Construction heating refers to the use of heating devices on construction sites to regulate temperatures and continue construction work even in cold weather. Mobile heating devices like electric fan heaters are often used.

• Condensation dryer

  A condensation dryer uses a refrigeration cycle to cool the air and remove moisture. The water condenses and is collected, while the dried air is returned to the room. It is commonly used for dehumidification.

• Condensation drying

  Energy consumption indicates how much electrical energy a device, such as an air conditioner or a dehumidifier, requires during operation. Energy consumption is stated in kWh.

• Condenser

  EPA stands for "Efficient Particulate Air" and is a filter class used in air purifiers. EPA filters remove fine particles from the air and offer a lower filtration performance than HEPA filters.

• Condensate

  Condensate forms when humid air is cooled and the water vapor turns into liquid water. In dehumidifiers and air conditioners, the condensate is collected and either drained or evaporated to dry the room.

• Condensate pump

  CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) were once widely used refrigerants but have been banned due to their harmful effects on the ozone layer. Modern air conditioning units use alternative refrigerants with a lower global warming potential (GWP).

• Condensate tray

  A condensate tray collects the condensate water that forms in dehumidifiers and air conditioners. It serves to store the water until it evaporates or is drained. Regular maintenance prevents overflow and water damage.

• CO2 Equivalent

  The humidity level indicates the relative humidity as a percentage. An optimal humidity level is between 40% and 60% to ensure a comfortable indoor climate and prevent mold growth.

• COP

  Filters in air purifiers, dehumidifiers and air conditioners remove impurities such as dust, pollen or odors from the air. There are various filter types, including EPA, HEPA and activated carbon filters, depending on the application and requirements.

D

• dB(A)

  dB(A) is a unit of measurement for sound level that takes into account the sensitivity of the human ear. In air treatment technology, dB(A) is used to specify the noise level of devices such as air conditioners or dehumidifiers.

• DC Motor

  Odor neutralization in air purifiers is often achieved with activated carbon filters. These remove unwanted odors by absorbing the molecules that cause them. Humidifiers and purifiers can thus contribute to improving air quality.

• Defrosting

  In hot gas defrosting, hot refrigerant gas is passed through the evaporator to melt ice. This method is particularly effective and is used in professional dehumidifiers and air conditioners to maximize operating time.

• Defrost Protection Circuit

  The defrost protection circuit prevents the evaporator in air conditioners or dehumidifiers from freezing due to condensation and cold. This is achieved through temperature monitoring and periodic shutdown of the cooling function.

• Dehumidification

  Dehumidification is the process of removing moisture from the air. Dehumidifiers reduce humidity and prevent mold growth. They are ideal for damp rooms like basements or bathrooms.

• Dew Point

  The dew point is the temperature at which air cools enough for water vapor to condense into water droplets. In air conditioning, the dew point is important for controlling condensation and moisture problems.

E

• EC Motor

  An inverter compressor regulates the speed of the compressor in air conditioners. This enables precise temperature control, as the compressor only works with the necessary power when needed, instead of constantly switching on and off.

• Electric Heater Fan

  An electric heater fan is a compact heating device that converts electrical energy into heat and blows it into the room using a fan. It is particularly suitable for temporarily heating rooms, for example on construction sites.

• Energy Consumption

  The IP protection class (Ingress Protection) indicates how well a device is protected against the ingress of dust and water. It consists of two digits: the first refers to protection against solid particles, and the second refers to protection against liquids.

• EPA

  The k-value, also called thermal conductivity, indicates how well a material conducts heat. A low k-value means better thermal insulation. In air conditioning technology, this value is important for choosing insulating materials.

• Evaporator

  The evaporator is a crucial part of the refrigeration cycle in air conditioning and cooling systems. Here, the liquid refrigerant evaporates and absorbs heat from the surroundings, leading to a cooling effect in the room.

F

• Fan

  Refrigerants are substances used in cooling and air conditioning systems to transport heat. Modern refrigerants have a lower global warming potential (GWP) than earlier substances such as CFCs.

• Filter

  Filters in air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning units remove impurities such as dust, pollen, or odors from the air. There are various types of filters, including EPA, HEPA, and activated carbon filters, depending on application and requirements.

G

H

• Heat Recovery

  Heat recovery refers to the use of thermal energy obtained from exhaust air in ventilation and air conditioning systems. This heat is used to preheat fresh air, significantly reducing energy consumption.

• HEPA

  HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) is a filter class that removes at least 99.95% of particles with a size of 0.3 micrometers from the air. HEPA filters are ideal for allergy sufferers and are used in air purifiers and vacuum cleaners.

• Hot Gas Defrosting

  In hot gas defrosting, hot refrigerant gas is passed through the evaporator to melt ice. This process is particularly effective and is used in professional dehumidifiers and air conditioning units to maximize operating time.

• Hot Water Heating Coil

  The condenser is a central component in cooling systems. It cools the hot, compressed refrigerant so that it returns to its liquid state. Condensers are used in air conditioners, refrigerators, and dehumidifiers.

• Hygrometer

  A hygrometer measures the humidity in a room. It is an essential device for monitoring indoor climate and is often used in conjunction with dehumidifiers or humidifiers to ensure optimal moisture levels.

• Hygrostat

  A hygrostat is a control device that measures humidity and automatically regulates dehumidifiers or humidifiers to maintain a desired moisture level. It ensures an optimal indoor climate and prevents mold growth.

I

• Inverter Compressor

  Power consumption describes how much electrical energy a device uses during operation, measured in watts (W). It is an important indicator of the energy consumption and operating costs of dehumidifiers, air conditioners and fans.

• Ionizer

  An ionizer improves air quality by releasing negative ions that bind to and neutralize harmful particles in the air. Used in air purifiers, an ionizer can reduce dust, pollen, and odors.

• IP Protection Class

  The coefficient of performance, also known as COP, indicates the ratio of delivered cooling capacity to electrical energy consumed. It is a measure for air conditioners and heat pumps: the higher the number, the better this ratio.

K

• k-value

  The k-value, also known as thermal conductivity, indicates how well a material conducts heat. A low k-value means better thermal insulation. In air conditioning technology, this value is important for selecting insulation materials.

L

• Leak Test

  Air humidity indicates the proportion of water vapor in the air. Optimal relative humidity is between 40% and 60%. Too high or too low humidity can cause health issues and building damage.

M

• Moisture Meter

  A moisture meter measures the moisture content in the air or materials. It is used to control indoor humidity and is a useful tool for the operation of dehumidifiers or humidifiers.

• Moisture Level

  Air volume refers to the volume of air moved by a device such as a fan or air conditioner. It is measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h) and determines how much air a device can move.

• Mold

  A PTC heating element (Positive Temperature Coefficient) is a self-regulating heating element that reduces the current flow when a certain temperature is reached. This makes it safer. It is used in electric heaters and air conditioners.

N

• Noise Level

  A radial blower moves air radially, i.e. from the center outwards. It generates high pressure and is used in air conditioners and dehumidifiers to ensure even air distribution.

O

• Odor Neutralization

  Odor neutralization in air purifiers is often achieved using activated carbon filters. These remove unwanted odors by absorbing odor-causing molecules. Humidifiers and air purifiers can thus contribute to improving air quality.

• Overpressure System

  Relative humidity is the percentage of water vapor in the air in relation to the maximum amount the air can hold at a given temperature. A value of 50% means that the air contains half of the possible moisture.

P

• Particulate Filter

  Particulate filters, also known as HEPA filters, remove tiny particles such as dust, pollen, and bacteria from the air. They are used in air purifiers and air conditioning systems to improve air quality and reduce allergens.

• Power consumption

  Power consumption describes how much electrical energy a device consumes during operation, measured in watts (W). It is an important indicator of the energy consumption and operating costs of dehumidifiers, air conditioners, and fans.

• Power usage

  Power consumption indicates how much electrical energy a device requires. It is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). In air conditioning units and air purifiers, power consumption is an important factor that affects operating costs.

• Power thyristor

  A power thyristor is a semiconductor device that can control high currents and voltages. In climate technology, it is used to regulate heating elements or fans to enable precise power control.

• PTC Heating element

  HEPA filters (particulate air filters) remove the smallest particles such as dust, pollen and bacteria from the air. They are used in air purifiers and air conditioners to improve air quality and reduce allergens.

R

• Radial Fan

  A side channel blower is a type of fan that moves air or gases with a high pressure increase. It is often used in industrial applications, for example for ventilation or in air conditioning, where strong pressure differences are required.

• RAL

  RAL is a color system that defines a standardized palette of colors. In air conditioning technology and household appliances, the RAL system is frequently used to clearly identify colors and standardize production.

• Refrigeration cycle

  The refrigeration cycle is the heart of air conditioning and cooling systems. It is based on the evaporation and condensation of refrigerants to remove and transport heat. Key components include the compressor, evaporator, and condenser.

• Refrigerant

  The dew point is the temperature at which air is cooled so far that the water vapor in the air condenses into water droplets. In air conditioning technology, the dew point is important for controlling condensation and moisture problems.

• Relative Humidity

  Relative humidity is the percentage of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount that air can hold at a given temperature. A value of 50% means the air contains half of the possible moisture.

• rF

  A turbo blower is a powerful blower that moves large volumes of air at low pressure. It is often used in air conditioners and ventilation systems to ensure fast air circulation.

S

• Side Channel Blower

  The U-value measures the heat transfer through a material and indicates how well a component is insulated. In air conditioning technology, the U-value is important for assessing thermal insulation.

• Silica Gel

  Silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture from the surrounding air. It is commonly used in dehumidifiers and packaging to bind moisture and prevent mold growth and corrosion.

• Stainless Steel

  VCC stands for "Variable Cooling Capacity" and describes a technology that adjusts the cooling capacity of air conditioning systems to the actual load. This allows more consistent temperature regulation.

• Sound Pressure Level

  A fan moves air in a room or device. In air conditioning technology, it is used for ventilation, cooling, or air circulation. There are different types, such as axial or radial fans, which differ in airflow and pressure buildup.

T

• Thyristor

  A thyristor is a semiconductor device used as a switch in electrical systems. In air conditioning and heating systems, it is used to control current flows, allowing precise regulation of power and temperature.

• Time-Controlled Defrosting

  Time-controlled defrosting is a feature in air conditioners and dehumidifiers where the evaporator is automatically defrosted at regular intervals. This ensures consistent performance of the device.

• Tube Evaporator

  The anti-icing circuit prevents the evaporator in air conditioners or dehumidifiers from icing up due to condensation and cold. This is achieved by temperature monitoring and temporarily switching off the cooling function.

• Turbo Blower

  A condenser is a heat exchanger in air conditioners that cools the gaseous refrigerant so that it becomes liquid again. The heat stored in the refrigerant is released to the surrounding air.

U

• U-Value

  Heat recovery refers to the use of the thermal energy that is extracted from the exhaust air in ventilation and air conditioning systems. This heat is used to preheat the fresh air.

V

• VCC

  A hot water heating coil is a heat exchanger that uses hot water to heat air in an air conditioning or ventilation system. It is often used in buildings to ensure even room heating.

W

• Water Basin Condenser

  A water basin condenser uses water to dissipate heat from a refrigerant. This type of condenser is found in larger air conditioners and cooling systems that require high cooling capacities. They are particularly common in industrial applications.

• Water Separator

  A water-cooled condenser uses water instead of air to cool the refrigerant. This technology is often used in larger air conditioning systems and industrial cooling systems, as it offers good performance at high outside temperatures.

• Water-Cooled Condenser

  Timed defrosting is a function in air conditioners and dehumidifiers in which ice on the evaporator is removed automatically at regular intervals. This ensures consistent performance of the device.

Z

• Zeolite

  Zeolite is a porous mineral used in air dehumidification. It can absorb large amounts of moisture from the air and is therefore ideal for use in adsorption dryers and air purification systems.