Furnace: The furnace takes up a majority of the space in an HVAC system and it is usually located in the basement or the attic. The furnace moves air from the heat exchanger into the air ducts.

Heat exchanger: The heat exchanger is located inside the furnace, but it has its own capabilities. It adds heat to the incoming air from the combustion chamber.

Evaporator coil: This HVAC part is also located in the furnace, but handles a different job. Refrigerant runs through the evaporator coil. The coil absorbs heat from air passing over it. The now-cold air blows through the air ducts throughout your home.

Condensing unit: The condensing unit is like the evaporator coil but for an outdoor HVAC unit. Inside the cube-shaped unit, the condensing unit exchanges heat with the air that passes over it. Unlike the evaporator coil, the condensing unit gives off heat.

Refrigerant tubes: These metal tubes connect the evaporator coil with the condensing coil. This means the refrigerant tubes connect the indoor and outdoor HVAC units. The tubes contain cooling refrigerant under a wide range of temperatures.

Thermostat: This small appliance is on a wall usually located on the main level of your home. Depending on what temperature you set it at, you can turn on the air conditioning or heating system. A programmable or “smart” thermostat controls your home’s temperature even if you’re not there. This helps you save money on your energy bill.

Ductwork: The air ducts are used to move air throughout your home. Air comes into the HVAC system through certain sections of the ductwork and then it's distributed to rooms through other sections.

Vents: Air enters the room through the smaller vents and is returned to the ductwork through the larger rectangular vent.

Compressor: This is the heart of the system. It pumps refrigerant between the indoor evaporator coil and outdoor condensing unit. The refrigerant removes warm air from indoors during summer and delivers heat in winter.