How does a variable air volume system operate?

A variable air volume (VAV) system operates by adjusting the amount of air delivered to different zones throughout a building in response to their specific heating or cooling requirements. This capability allows for optimal comfort and energy efficiency, as each zone can receive precisely the amount of air needed to maintain the desired temperature, regardless of the differing conditions or occupancy levels in different spaces.

In contrast to systems that maintain a constant flow of air, a VAV system actively responds to changes in demand, which can lead to significant energy savings. This flexibility means that during periods of low demand, such as when certain areas are unoccupied, less air is supplied, reducing the overall energy consumption of the heating and cooling systems.

The other options describe methods that do not allow for such adaptability. For example, maintaining a constant flow of air does not consider the varying needs of different zones, which can lead to inefficiencies and discomfort. Similarly, delivering heated air only during peak hours or providing the same air volume to all areas ignores the dynamic nature of temperature regulation required in modern buildings. A VAV system's ability to modulate air delivery based on real-time conditions is what distinguishes it as an effective solution for climate control.