BAS Training: Common HVAC Controls Terms Explained

If you’re new to building automation, the lingo can feel like a different language. In this video I break down the most common BAS and HVAC controls terms you’ll actually hear on a job site — so you can walk into your next call already knowing what people are talking about. Terms covered (in order): 00:00 Intro 00:16 BAS — Building Automation System 00:31 DDC — Direct Digital Control 00:45 Front End + Graphics 00:55 Alarms + Trends 01:07 AHU — Air Handling Unit 01:15 RTU — Rooftop Unit 01:21 VAV — Variable Air Volume 01:31 Chiller 01:34 Cooling Tower 01:41 Sensor 01:50 Actuator 01:59 Setpoint 02:15 PID Loop (Proportional · Integral · Derivative) 02:36 Hunting 02:41 AI / AO (Analog Input / Output) 02:53 BI / BO (Binary Input / Output) 03:05 BACnet — pronounced “back net” 03:12 BACnet IP 03:16 BACnet MS/TP 03:26 Supervisory Controller / JACE 03:39 Static Pressure 03:45 Differential Pressure (ΔP) 03:52 CFM — airflow 03:56 Economizer (free cooling) 04:04 Trending 04:12 Recap 04:25 Comment + Subscribe Drop a comment with BAS terms you want explained next. Subscribe for more BAS training, troubleshooting, HVAC controls, and commissioning content.