Few know what a heat pump does and how it works.
While most people are familiar with how an air conditioner works and its benefits, few know what a heat pump does and how it works. So when asked which they would prefer they may automatically answer with the more well known device without first doing some research to see which is better for their home.
Heat Pump
A heat pump does exactly what the name implies, it pumps and heats air into your home from outside to help keep it warm during winter. What most people do not realize though is that heat pumps also work in reverse and pull heat out of your house during the summer. They are more energy efficient then air conditioners and can be installed as central units in the same way. The down side to heat pumps is that if the outside temperature drops below 40 degrees they are unable to maintain a comfortable inside temperature making them useless on their own for heating purposes in the colder, northern states. There are electric strips that you can install onto the unit to offset that problem, but then you lose the benefit of a lower utility bill.
Air Conditioners
Air conditioners sole purpose is to cool a house down. This is done using Freon that is passing through closed circuits. The biggest benefit to a central air conditioning system is that you are able to cool off your entire home quickly with just the turn of a switch. This is the more advisable option if your house already has a heating unit such as a furnace installed.
Homes in southern states that have moderate temperatures almost year round will benefit most using a heat pump exclusively. They perform just as well as an air-conditioner during the hotter months, and will eliminate the need for a secondary heating source during the cooler spring and fall seasons.
Consider Your Best Options
How do you decide which is the best for you? First you will want to consider what the house is already equipped with. If a furnace or oil burner in good working condition is already in place then a heat pump is unnecessary, but if the units are old or not in good working condition then replacing them with the more energy efficient heat pump may be your best option. Also think about whether or not your house has a fireplace or wood-burning stove. These can act to help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature if the outside temperature falls below 40.
If keeping your house cold during the summer is your primary concern and heating your home in the winter is not an issue than opt for a central air conditioning unit. Choose wisely and go with a unit that has a higher energy efficiency rating to help keep the electric bill from rising too much.
Contact Engineered Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC
There are many choices in both brand and type on the market for you to choose from. Seeking the advice of a trusted and reliable HVAC technician is recommended to ensure that you are aware of all of your options and educated on which one is best suited for your home.
Call Engineered Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC at (314) 471-7625. We will help you choose whether a heat pump or an air conditioner is the best option for your home.
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