What is VAV (Variable Air Volume)?
VAV (Variable Air Volume) is a part of the HVAC system that adjusts airflow to different spaces based on heating or cooling needs.
Definition
A VAV system is part of a building’s HVAC setup that controls temperature by varying the volume of air delivered to each zone. Instead of pushing a constant amount of air, it adjusts airflow depending on how much heating or cooling a space needs at a given time.
Purpose
VAV systems are designed to make indoor spaces more comfortable while using energy more efficiently. Rather than treating the whole building the same way, they allow different areas to receive the right amount of air based on occupancy and temperature.
You’ll typically find them in office buildings, commercial spaces, hospitals, and healthcare facilities
schools, universities, and large residential or mixed-use buildings
Examples of Use
VAV systems are commonly used in buildings where different rooms have different temperature needs throughout the day.
- Office Spaces: Improves comfort and energy efficiency by allowing you to adjust the temperature in different parts of the office.
- Hospitals: The rooms where patients stay need to be comfortable at all times, but other areas may have different needs.
- Schools: Classrooms need to have flexible airflow because they get hot during lectures and cool down when they're empty.
- Commercial Buildings: Each tenant or zone can set their own comfort level without bothering anyone else
Related Terms
Notes
- VAV systems are widely used in modern buildings for their efficiency and flexibility.
- Instead of always running at full capacity, a VAV system changes the amount of air that flows through it.
- It helps save energy while maintaining the same comfort levels across all areas.
- Usually, each zone has its own control unit that can change the airflow as needed.
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