Stop #1
Know your building
Identify current heating / cooling equipment
Ask your HVAC service provider OR follow the steps below
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that is either connected to building ductwork OR directly blowing hot/cold air into the room.*
* If your cooling comes from boxes sitting in windows, those are window A/C units. The steps below do not apply to your situation.
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and is directly connected to ductwork it is called a rooftop unit (RTU), and typically provides air circulation, air conditioning and heating all in one device.
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often in the basement, and is directly connected to ductwork, this is a a central-air system (furnace or air handling unit).
Central-air systems are usually heated either by gas or electric heat. A gas heater is typically identified by the yellow gas pipe going into it, and the small pipe for exhaust air going outside.
An electric heater might be identified by the lack of gas pipe or exhaust pipe, or the electrical breaker located on the furnace.
If your central-air system cools the space, its cooling comes from an air conditioner unit located outside.
If your cooling comes from boxes mounted on walls, those are typically called mini splits (or mini-split air conditioners).
Reference images
Example of roof-top unit (RTU)
Example of AC unit
Example of furnace
Example of mini-split unit
Once you’ve identified your current heating / cooling equipment, drive on to …
