What Are Heat Pumps and How Do They Work?
Heat pumps are part of a home heating and cooling system that can both cool and heat homes. They work by pulling heat from the outdoor air in cooler months and transferring it indoors. In warmer months, they pull heat out of indoor air to cool the home.
Heat pumps are powered by electricity and use refrigerant to transfer heat, making them more environmentally friendly than furnaces that burn fossil fuels. There are two common types of heat pumps: air-source and ground-source.
Air Source Heat Pumps & Ground Source Heat Pumps
Air-source heat pumps transfer heat between indoor and outdoor air, while ground-source heat pumps transfer heat between indoor air and the ground. Ground-source heat pumps are more expensive but more efficient.
Heat pumps do not generate heat, but rather move it from one place to another. They are more common in milder climates, but in colder regions, they can be combined with furnaces for efficient heating.
A heat pump system consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler unit, both containing coils and fans. The refrigerant absorbs and rejects heat as it circulates through the system, with the compressor pressurizing the refrigerant and moving it throughout.
Air-source heat pumps transfer heat between indoor and outdoor air, while ground-source heat pumps transfer heat between indoor air and the ground. Ground-source heat pumps are more expensive but more efficient.
Heat pumps do not generate heat, but rather move it from one place to another. They are more common in milder climates, but in colder regions, they can be combined with furnaces for efficient heating. A heat pump system consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler unit, both containing coils and fans. The refrigerant absorbs and rejects heat as it circulates through the system, with the compressor pressurizing the refrigerant and moving it throughout.
The reversing valve allows the system to switch between heating and cooling. Heat pumps are versatile and efficient cooling and heating systems that can change the flow of refrigerant to either heat or cool a home. They transfer heat energy from the air to the refrigerant through an evaporator coil and then circulate it to a condenser coil where it is released. Heat pumps may also be used in conjunction with a ductless mini-split system.
There are many different types of heating and cooling systems available, and geothermal systems are another option for heating and cooling. Indoor air quality is an important consideration in HVAC systems, and understanding the differences between heat pumps and air conditioning is important as well.
HVAC experts ensure proper installation and adherence to safety standards, and a local North Hall Heating & Cooling professional can help you evaluate your specific heating and cooling requirements.
The best way to be sure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently is to schedule regular maintenance. You can make sure your system is ready to support your comfort throughout the year. Call the HVAC experts at North Hall Heating & Air at 770-539-4645.