How a Heat Pump Cools Your House
In the U.S., heat pumps can be a popular option for heating and cooling your house.
They appear almost like an air conditioner. In reality, they run in a similar fashion during warm weather. Because of a reversing valve, they can transfer warmth in the opposite direction as well as add warmth to your house when it’s cold.
Not sure if you use a heat pump or an air conditioner? All you have to do is locate the model number on the outdoor unit and check it online. If you find you use a heat pump, or you’re considering purchasing one, find out how this HVAC system keeps houses cozy.
How Heat Pumps Run
Heat pumps use a refrigeration system similar to an air conditioner. Most can run akin to a ductless mini-split, since they can heat and cool. Heat pumps use an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condensing coil. Refrigerant is sent through these coils to shift warmth. The outdoor unit also has a compressor and is encircled by metal fins that function as a heat sink to help shift warmth properly.
Summertime Cooling
When your heat pump is cooling, the refrigerant starts in the evaporator coil. Air from within the house moves over the coil, and the refrigerant removes warmth. Water in the air also condenses on the coil, falling into the condensate pan below and flows away. The ensuing cool air moves through the ductwork and back into your house.
At the same time, the refrigerant moves a compressor on its way to the outdoor coil. This constricts the refrigerant, leading it to warm up. As it moves through the condensing coil, the outside fan and metal fins help to discharge heat to the outdoors. The refrigerant moves back indoors, moving through an expansion valve that chills it considerably, prepping it to start the process from the beginning.
When your heat pump is put in and maintained properly, you’ll get efficient cooling on par with an energy-efficient air conditioner.
Wintertime Heating
When your heat pump is set to heat, the heat exchange process happens the other way around. By moving in the opposing direction, refrigerant removes heat from the outdoor air and vents it into your house to warm the inside.
Heat pumps running in heating mode are most effective when the temperature is warmer than freezing outside. If it becomes too chilly, a backup electric resistance heater turns on to keep your house comfy, but your heating expenses go up as a result.
Heat pumps work longer than furnaces since the air doesn’t become as warm. This helps sustain a more balanced indoor temperature. Additionally, because heat pumps shift warmth rather than creating it from a fuel source, they can operate well above 100% efficiency. You can anticipate 30–40% savings on your heating costs by installing a heat pump.
Request Heat Pump Installation or Service Now
Heat pumps are a green choice and economical. They are an alternative to the regular AC/furnace system and need the same amount of maintenance—one service in the spring and another in the fall.
If you want to install a heat pump, ´óÏó´«Ã½ Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is the company to contact. We’ll size and install your system to match your heating and cooling needs. And then we’ll support our installation with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year. To find out more, contact us at 866-397-3787 now.
