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HVAC \u00b7 United States

HVAC Symbols — US (ASHRAE / ANSI)

US HVAC systems use symbols from ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) and ANSI standards. These appear on mechanical plans, equipment schedules, and inspection documentation submitted for building permits and commissioning.

ASHRAE / ANSI/ASME / IMC (International Mechanical Code)12 symbols

Ductwork

Supply Air Duct

Rectangular supply air ductwork

CIBSE Guide B

Extract Air Duct

Rectangular extract air ductwork

CIBSE Guide B

Circular Duct

Circular / spiral ductwork section

CIBSE Guide B

Controls

Volume Control Damper

Manual or motorised air volume control damper

CIBSE Guide B

Fire Damper

Fire-rated damper in ductwork penetrating fire compartment wall

BS EN 15650 / CIBSE

Room Thermostat

Room temperature sensor / thermostat

CIBSE Guide H

Thermostatic Radiator Valve

TRV for individual radiator temperature control

CIBSE / BS EN 215

Terminals

Supply Diffuser

Ceiling or wall supply air diffuser

CIBSE Guide B

Return Air Grille

Return air grille for recirculation

CIBSE Guide B

Equipment

Air Handling Unit (AHU)

Central air handling unit with filter, coil, and fan sections

CIBSE Guide B

Fan (Axial)

Axial or centrifugal fan

CIBSE Guide B

Heat Exchanger

Plate or cross-flow heat exchanger / heat recovery unit

CIBSE Guide B

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Frequently asked questions about hvac symbols

What is ASHRAE?
ASHRAE is the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. They publish standards and guidelines for HVAC system design, including drawing conventions.
What is the IMC?
The International Mechanical Code (IMC) is adopted by most US jurisdictions for mechanical system installations. It references ASHRAE standards for design and installation requirements.

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