In HVAC terminology, what do the terms 'sensible' and 'latent' heat refer to?

The terms 'sensible' and 'latent' heat are fundamental concepts in HVAC terminology that describe different types of heat transfer. Sensible heat refers to the energy that causes a change in temperature of a substance without changing its phase. For instance, when you heat water, its temperature rises without changing from liquid to gas. This is considered sensible heat because it can be directly measured with a thermometer.

Latent heat, on the other hand, is associated with the phase change of a substance. It refers to the energy absorbed or released during a phase transition, such as melting, boiling, or condensation, without a change in temperature. For example, when ice melts into water, it absorbs latent heat; this heat does not raise the temperature of the ice-water mixture until all the ice has melted.

Understanding these definitions is crucial in HVAC applications, as they impact calculations related to heating, cooling, and humidity control within an environment. Recognizing how each type of heat operates allows HVAC professionals to design systems that effectively manage indoor climates.