TheoryHVAC NATE Study Guide
Study for the HVAC NATE with exam topics, practice questions, a free PDF, video walkthrough and timed mock exam links.
How to study for HVAC NATE
- Read the topic list so you know what the exam is likely to cover.
- Answer the free practice questions and read every explanation.
- Download the PDF for offline review.
- Use timed mock exams when your untimed practice feels comfortable.
Topics to review
- Core formulas and field calculations
- Codes, standards and compliance
- Safe work practices and PPE
- Tools, materials and on-site reference
Try HVAC NATE questions now
Q1What is the primary purpose of a supply duct in an HVAC system?
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✓ Correct answer: Deliver conditioned air from the air handler to the occupied space
Supply ducts carry conditioned (heated or cooled) air from the air-handling unit to registers in the occupied space. Return ducts perform the reverse function, pulling room air back to be reconditioned.
Q2Which unit is used to express airflow volume in HVAC ductwork?
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✓ Correct answer: Cubic feet per minute (CFM)
Airflow volume is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). FPM measures velocity, and in. w.c. measures static pressure — both related but distinct from volume.
Q3What does 'static pressure' represent in a duct system?
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✓ Correct answer: The pressure exerted equally in all directions on the duct walls
Static pressure acts outward in all directions on duct walls and is what drives leakage through seams and holes. It is distinct from velocity pressure, which acts only in the direction of airflow.
Q4Velocity pressure in a duct is best described as:
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✓ Correct answer: The pressure component due to the kinetic energy of moving air
Velocity pressure (VP) results from the kinetic energy of air in motion. It acts only in the direction of airflow and equals (V/4005)² in. w.c., where V is velocity in FPM at standard air density.
Q5Total pressure in a duct is the sum of which two pressures?
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✓ Correct answer: Static pressure and velocity pressure
Total pressure = static pressure + velocity pressure (Bernoulli). Knowing total pressure is essential for understanding how fans and ducts interact at any operating point.
Q6The basic airflow equation CFM = Area × Velocity requires area in which unit?
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✓ Correct answer: Square feet
When velocity is in feet per minute (FPM), area must be in square feet to produce CFM directly. Convert square inches to square feet by dividing by 144.
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