Variable air volume (VAV) is a type of heating, ventilating and air conditioning system. Many of the buildings on campus have variable air volume systems. This system consists of an air handling unit, heating/cooling coils and VAV boxes downstream for distribution throughout the building.
VAV boxes are flow control devices that consist of an air damper and reheat coil. This allows for the air coming from the central air handling unit to be distributed to the space as needed.
This type of system enables all zones to be controlled separately by each VAV box. A single VAV box typically serves 2-3 offices or a single classroom or conference space that is controlled by the space sensor in the room.