What exactly is a heat pump anyways, and how does it work?

In simple terms, a heat pump is a dual heating and cooling system that uses low amounts of energy to control the temperature of a building. It transfers heat from one area to another, either through the air or the ground.

Air-source heat pumps, which are the most common, function by transferring heat within the air of a home to the outdoors and vice versa. In contrast, ground-source heat pumps harness geothermal energy, transferring heat between the air inside a building and the ground outside.

Generally, if you know how traditional air conditioning systems work, then you understand how heat pumps work, as their functionality is basically the same. But the critical difference lies in a heat pump’s ability to heat a home as well. Unlike traditional heating systems like gas furnaces, they do so not by generating their own heat but by transferring already existing heat from one location to another. This means you only need to install one set-up in your home instead of two separate HVAC systems!

On average, ground-source heat pumps are the more efficient option, especially if you live in a colder climate. However, the downside is that they come with a pretty hefty price tag — typically nearly double or more than an air-source heat pump installation. This price difference is primarily due to the additional technical knowledge and equipment involved in installing these geothermal systems and can be a considerable barrier in many homes pursuing this option.

If you live in a more moderate climate, though, an air-source heat pump system can be just as, if not more, efficient for your home — but more on that later.

They’re energy efficient and will save you money

To begin with, both air-source and ground-source heat pump systems are known for their energy efficiency. This can mean some substantial savings on your monthly energy bills. In fact, according to the Department of Energy, air-source heat pumps can result in savings of nearly $1000 a year!

They’re better for the climate than traditional heating sources 

Then there’s the climate impact. 7% of fossil fuel energy in the U.S. is used for home water and interior heating, and heat pumps offer an excellent way for all of us to reduce our usage. In truth, according to research from Harvard University, if heat pumps became the standard in the U.S. (instead of installing new central air-conditioning systems), we could have heat pumps in 44% of American homes by as early as 2032. And if this was the case? These homes could reduce “their fossil fuel use during the colder months by at least one-third.” Talk about the power of community change!

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They’re better for your family’s health

Heat pumps aren’t just good for our planet, though. They can also have a positive effect on our health too! For example, suppose you’re switching from fossil fuel-driven heating that relies on natural gas or propane sources. In that case, adopting an electricity-based heat pump system can help eliminate the risk of gas and carbon monoxide leaks in your home. This is a significant win, especially considering that the presence of natural gas indoors has been linked to an increase in cases of childhood asthma.

So when considering a Heat Pump System for your home contact us, the Heat Pump experts, The Air Conditioning Co! We can answer all your questions and provide all your Heat Pump needs.