What role does insulation play in an HVAC system?

Insulation is a critical component of an HVAC system because it plays an essential role in maintaining temperature within a space. When properly installed, insulation acts as a barrier to heat flow, minimizing unwanted heat loss in the winter and reducing heat gain in the summer. This temperature control is vital for ensuring that the HVAC system operates efficiently, as it means the system doesn't have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. By keeping the conditioned air inside the structure and preventing outside temperatures from affecting the interior, insulation contributes significantly to energy savings and improves overall comfort.

The role of insulation in controlling humidity levels, providing additional cooling capacity, or increasing airflow efficiency is secondary or indirect and is not its primary function. While these aspects are important, they are more closely related to the performance of the HVAC components themselves rather than the insulation's primary purpose.