In the U.S., heat pumps can be a popular option for heating and cooling your house.
They appear about the same as an air conditioner. In reality, they work in the same way during warm weather. Because of a reversing valve, they can move humidity in the opposite direction as well as heat your home when temperatures drop.
Not sure if you use a heat pump or an air conditioner? Just find the model number on the outdoor unit and check it online. If you discover you use a heat pump, or you’re thinking over buying one, learn more about how this HVAC system keeps homes comfy.
Heat pumps have a refrigeration system similar to an air conditioner. Most can operate akin to a ductless mini-split, since they can heat and cool. Heat pumps rely on an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condensing coil. Refrigerant is sent through these coils to transfer warmth. The outdoor unit also uses a compressor and is surrounded by metal fins that work as a heat sink to help shift heat efficiently.
When your heat pump is cooling, the refrigerant is in the evaporator coil. Air from within the house is distributed over the coil, and the refrigerant extracts warmth. Moisture in the air also condenses on the coil, dropping into the condensate pan below and moves away. The ensuing cool air moves through the ductwork and back into your residence.
Meanwhile, the refrigerant moves a compressor on its way to the outdoor coil. This compresses the refrigerant, forcing it to get hotter. As it goes through the condensing coil, the outside fan and metal fins help to exhaust heat to the exterior. The refrigerant moves back inside, moving through an expansion valve that chills it considerably, readying it to begin the process all over again.
When your heat pump is replaced and maintained correctly, you’ll receive efficient cooling comparable to an energy-efficient air conditioner.
When your heat pump is set to heat, the heat exchange procedure takes place the opposite way. By moving in the opposite direction, refrigerant pulls heat from the outdoor air and disperses it into your house to warm the inside.
Heat pumps running in heating mode are most efficient when the temperature is above freezing outside. If it becomes too frigid, a backup electric resistance heater starts to keep your residence cozy, but your heating expenses go up as a result.
Heat pumps work longer than furnaces as the air doesn’t get as warm. This helps sustain a more even indoor temperature. Also, because heat pumps move heat rather than creating it from a fuel source, they can operate well above 100% efficiency. You should expect 30–40% savings on your heating expenses by getting a heat pump.
Heat pumps are good for the environment and money-saving. They are a substitute for the standard AC/furnace setup and should have the same amount of maintenance—one inspection in the spring and another in the fall.
If you want to install a heat pump, Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is the contractor to call. We’ll size and install your system to fit your heating and cooling needs. And then we’ll back our services with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year. To learn more, contact us at 866-397-3787 today.
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