Maintaining an optimal indoor temperature may prove difficult once your furnace is old and starts to fail. Rather than replacing it with a similar model, consider upgrading to a heat pump. This appliance requires less power to operate than a furnace while providing a comparable level of comfort, which makes it an ideal choice during mild Southern winters. If you’re unfamiliar with how it heats the home, take a closer look at the technology and the many benefits you'll enjoy.

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

The function of the unit during the winter is similar to an air conditioner on a hot day, meaning that it uses refrigerant to perform the exchange. Once it begins to circulate, the refrigerant will absorb the heat from outside and draw it into the home. 

It then passes over the indoor coil, which features a blower that cools the refrigerant and forces it to release the heat. The process continues on a loop, with the refrigerant passing through the outdoor component to gather more warmth.

What Are the Benefits? 

The main benefit is that a heat pump can serve as both a warming and cooling unit—in other words, a home's entire HVAC system. All it takes is the flip of a switch, and the refrigerant will start taking the heat from the home and releasing it outdoors to cool the air and remove humidity. If you're getting close to needing a new AC as well, a pump is a perfect solution, and you'll only need to take care of maintenance for a single unit year-round.

The technology is also known to use about 30% to 60% less energy than traditional furnaces. This is largely due to the fact that they don’t generate their own warmth. By simply moving it from one place to another, these systems are considered one of the most energy-efficient options on the market. 

You'll also enjoy peace of mind regarding the effect on the environment. Heat pumps don’t use gas or oil, which means there are fewer harmful byproducts. This also reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and eliminates the potential for exhaust leaks. 

If you’re considering a heating upgrade, turn to the experts at Parker’s Heating & Cooling of Cairo, GA. With more than 25 years of experience, these HVAC contractors provide quality heating and cooling services throughout Southern Georgia and Northern Florida. They’re skilled in the latest techniques for installing heat pumps and are available 24/7 for emergency repairs. Call (229) 377-9129 to schedule an estimate or visit their website for additional information on their services.