In the U.S., heat pumps can be a popular option for heating and cooling your home.
They look almost like an air conditioner. In fact, they operate in a similar fashion during high temperatures. Due to a reversing valve, they can move warmth in the opposite direction as well as heat your house when it’s cold.
Not sure if you rely on a heat pump or an air conditioner? Simply find the model number on the outdoor unit and run it online. If you discover you own a heat pump, or you’re considering installing one, discover how this HVAC equipment keeps homes comfy.
Heat pumps have a refrigeration system much like an air conditioner. Most can run similar 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 move humidity. The outdoor unit also contains a compressor and is surrounded by metal fins that function as a heat sink to help move heat effectively.
In cooling mode, the refrigerant begins in the evaporator coil. Air from within the house is distributed over the coil, and the refrigerant sucks out heat. Moisture in the air also condenses on the coil, dripping into the condensate pan below and drains away. The resulting dehumidified air moves through the ductwork and back into your home.
At the same time, the refrigerant moves a compressor on its way to the outdoor coil. This concentrates the refrigerant, forcing it to heat up even more. As it goes through the condensing coil, the exterior fan and metal fins help to exhaust heat to the outside. The refrigerant moves back inside, traveling through an expansion valve that cools it greatly, readying it to start the process from the start.
When your heat pump is replaced and maintained correctly, you’ll enjoy efficient cooling similar to an energy-saving air conditioner.
When your heat pump is heating, the heat exchange procedure occurs the other way around. By flowing in the opposing direction, refrigerant pulls heat from the outdoor air and disperses it into your home to warm the interior.
Heat pumps working in heating mode are most effective when the temperature is above freezing outside. If it becomes too chilly, a backup electric resistance heater starts to keep your home comfy, but your heating expenses increase as a result.
Heat pumps run longer than furnaces because the air doesn’t get as hot. This helps maintain a more even indoor temperature. Also, because heat pumps move warmth rather than creating it from a fuel source, they can operate well above 100% efficiency. You should expect 30–40% savings on your heating costs by using a heat pump.
Heat pumps are environmentally friendly and economical. They are an alternative to the traditional AC/furnace system and require the same amount of maintenance—one inspection in the spring and another in the fall.
If you’d like to install a heat pump, Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is the Expert to contact. We’ll size and install your system to match your heating and cooling requirements. And then we’ll back our installation with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year. To find out more, contact us at 866-397-3787 now.
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There’s no reason to skip your seasonal maintenance that saves energy and helps ensure your air conditioner and heater will work reliably all season long.
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