Understanding Heat Pumps
A heat pump can be a noteworthy alternative for those living in temperate climates. This energy-efficient device can heat and cool, but it operates differently from most HVAC units.
When thinking about cooling or heating home solutions, many people only consider air conditioners and furnaces. But, a heat pump can be a noteworthy alternative for those living in temperate climates. This energy-efficient device can heat and cool, but it operates differently from most HVAC units.
Please keep reading to learn how heat pumps work and their benefits.
How heat pumps work
Heat pumps use electricity to find and transfer heat from one location to the next.
The locations are called the source side and the load side. The pump gathers heat from the source side and delivers it to the load side. As a result, a cold place becomes colder, and a warm place warmer.
The weather determines which side is the source side and the load one.
Heat pumps take the heat from inside a house during summer and warmer days and dissipate it into the warm outdoors.
In the winter or cold weather, heat pumps scavenge heat outdoors and move it inside the house.
What are the types of heat pumps?
The primary difference between heat pumps is their source of heat. These pumps can gather heat from the air, water, or ground. As a result, there are three types of heat pumps:
Air-source heat pumps
An air-to-air pump is the most commonly used type of heat pump. This pump sources heat from the air and transfers it between the house and the outdoors.
Homeowners from all over the country have been using these pumps for years. They saw the most frequent use in areas with moderate climates. But, in recent years, technological advancements have made it possible to use air-source pumps even in regions with subfreezing temperatures.
Ground-source heat pumps
Ground-source heat pumps are also known as geothermal pumps. As the name suggests, these pumps absorb heat from the ground. Ground-source pumps require drilling into the earth’s surface, meaning they’re expensive to install. However, they have low operating costs due to a consistent ground temperature year-round.
Water-source heat pumps
Water-source pumps operate in the same manner as ground-source pumps. The only difference is that they transfer heat from a water source.
What are the advantages of heat pumps?
Heat pumps don’t generate heat; they only move it. Therefore, they use significantly less electricity than conventional cooling or heating appliances, making them a much more cost-effective option.
Geothermal pumps especially excel at reducing energy use. Homeowners can use these sturdy and reliable devices even in more extreme climates without worrying about the utility bill.
Modern high-efficiency heat pumps also manage the humidity level better than standard air conditioners, using less energy. No humidity means no mold and odors and a cool and pleasant atmosphere during the summer months.
How to get a heat pump
Homeowners considering installing a heat pump should contact a reliable HVAC contractor. They can help determine which type is the best option based on the characteristics of the house, lot, and climate.
Forecast Heating, Cooling, and Refrigeration is a licensed HVAC company dedicated to providing affordable and reliable heating installation and replacement, heating repair and maintenance, heat pump installation, heat pump repair, and heat pump replacement. Call us for a free, no-obligation estimate.
