Which type of HVAC system combines both heating and cooling functions into a single package?

Unitary systems are designed to consolidate both heating and cooling functionalities within a single unit, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications. These systems typically involve an air-cooled condenser and an indoor coil that works together to either heat or cool the air in a space. By integrating both functions, unitary systems simplify installation and maintenance, reduce space requirements, and often improve energy efficiency as they use a single set of components for both temperature control needs.

In contrast, an all-water system primarily utilizes water for heating and cooling, typically requiring additional equipment like boilers and chillers, which makes it less compact and more complex. An all-air system, on the other hand, mainly uses air as the medium for distributing heating or cooling but does not necessarily provide both functions in a single package. Lastly, an air and water system combines features of both air and water systems but is not as streamlined as a unitary system that integrates the two functions. Thus, the unitary system stands out as the most efficient solution for managing both heating and cooling requirements in one cohesive unit.