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When Should You Consider Using A Heat Pump For Residential Air Conditioning?

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A heat pump is an air conditioning system that provides heating during the winter. The unit uses reverse refrigeration technology to absorb heat from the outside air and transfer it indoors for heating. Heat pumps come in ducted and ductless configurations, allowing you to choose the most practical and cost-effective option for your home. Below are the key factors that should help you decide whether a heat pump is ideal for cooling your home. 

Projected Energy Savings

Are you looking to save more money on annual heating and cooling? If so, a heat pump may be suitable for your home. In cooling mode, heat pumps absorb heat from the indoor air and release it outside, thereby cooling the home. In heating mode, they absorb heat from the outdoor air and use it to warm the indoor air. Heat pumps use electrical energy only to power the system's components. Therefore, they can generate significant financial savings on annual heating and cooling. 

Need for Combined Heating and Cooling

Heat pumps are popular because of their ability to provide both heating and cooling. They are suitable for new construction and homes that require HVAC upgrades. Instead of buying an air conditioner and a furnace, you can invest in a single appliance for combined heating and cooling. Even if you have a heating system, a heat pump would still be a great investment for your home. Since it consumes less energy, it can lower your home's cooling costs. You can also zone the system as you would with a central air conditioning system. 

Severity of Winter Temperatures

If you are buying a heat pump for combined heating and cooling, you need to consider the severity of the winters in your region. In cooling mode, heat pumps work efficiently regardless of the prevailing weather. However, during heating, the unit needs to absorb heat from the outdoor air to heat the home. If you live in an area with severe winters characterized by sub-zero temperatures, you need a separate heating system. There won't be enough heat in the air for the heat pump to absorb; thus, it won't provide adequate heating in the home. 

Need for a Low-Maintenance Unit

Heat pumps are relatively easy to maintain, which makes them an attractive option for homeowners. Below are the basic maintenance tasks you should perform to optimize the unit's performance. 

  • Clean the air filters regularly
  • Inspect and clean the condenser and evaporator coils
  • Check and clean the condensate drain
  • Inspect electrical components
  • Check refrigerant levels 

If you opt for a ducted system, you must inspect and clean the ducts and vents as well. Schedule a professional service every year to ensure optimal performance and longevity. 

Heat pumps are energy-efficient and reliable systems for residential air conditioning. They can provide heating during the winter as well. Contact an HVAC contractor for heat pump installation services.

Reach out to a company like Art Douglas Plumbing Inc to learn more.


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