What does a central HVAC system typically use?

A central HVAC system typically utilizes a single, central unit for air distribution. This design is characterized by having a primary heating and cooling source that conditions the air throughout the entire building. The central unit can be a furnace or an air conditioner, and it works in conjunction with a system of ducts that transport the conditioned air to various rooms.

This approach has several advantages, including improved energy efficiency, consistent temperature control, and the ability to filter and humidify the air for the entire space. This contrasts with systems that use individual units for each room, which can lead to greater energy consumption and less even temperature distribution. Additionally, while solar panels can be an energy source for HVAC systems and different heating methods may be used in specific configurations, these elements are not central to what defines a standard central HVAC system.