How are HVAC systems tested for efficiency?

HVAC systems

Air conditioning and climate control systems are used in a wide range of environmental conditions across the world. The primary purpose of these systems is to maintain thermal comfort by regulating indoor air temperature and humidity.

To maintain air quality, fresh outside air is continuously drawn into the HVAC system and conditioned before being circulated indoors. However, due to varying local climates, outside temperatures could be anywhere between -50 … +50 °C, with humidity levels between -30 … +30 °C dew point.

Designing a system with satisfactory performance across such a wide range of conditions is a challenge, therefore HVAC systems need to be properly set up, and subject to a rigorous testing regime before sale. The purpose of this testing is not only to evaluate the performance of the systems temperature and humidity control, but to ensure the system is energy efficient, filled with the correct level of refrigerants and is not subject to any leaks or problems with drainage.