When you live in a mild climate, a heat pump is ideal for keeping your home comfortable year-round. It redistributes heat from the environment to achieve the desired interior temperature. If you're considering one for your home, here's what you should know.

A Guide to Heat Pumps

How do they work?

In heating mode, the pump takes heat from outside and transfers it to evaporator coils containing refrigerant. The warmer coolant then flows through the compressor, where it is pressurized to achieve a higher temperature. After it’s heated, the refrigerant moves inside to the air handler, which distributes warm air into the home.

In cooling mode, the process is essentially reversed. Heat is absorbed from the indoor environment through the refrigerant and moves through a cycle of evaporation and condensation to cool the air and release heat outside.

Are there different types of heat pumps?

There are two main types of heat pumps: air-source and ground-source. Air-source units are the most popular option for mild climates and simply transfer heat in the air. Ground-source versions use the same system as air-source pumps, but the heat is transferred between the home and the ground and vice versa.

What are the benefits of a heat pump?

Since these pumps transfer heat as opposed to generating it, they can warm your home at around a quarter of the cost of traditional HVAC appliances. These units are also environmentally friendly, reducing electricity use for heating by around 50%. One study showed they can reduce greenhouse gas emissions for one household by up to 54%.

This system is also convenient and space-efficient. Your contractor won’t have to install two separate appliances. Yearly maintenance is straightforward; technicians will check refrigerant levels and clean and repair components to ensure efficiency.

What size heat pump do I need?

To determine the right pump size for your home, the contractor may perform a Manual J load calculation. This formula takes into account the square footage of your home and wall locations to determine the optimal heating and cooling capacity. Capacity is measured in tons, and pumps with higher tonnage are most suitable for larger homes.

For quality heat pump installation, contact Walker Electric Inc. in Andalusia, AL. They specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing heating and cooling systems. If you want to cut your bills, their team will do an energy audit to determine whether replacing or repairing your unit will help you achieve your goal. Call (334) 222-2481 to discuss your needs, or learn more about their services online.