Many homeowners are familiar with the traditional HVAC system, but what is a heat pump?
You have a gas furnace and a coil inside your home. In southeast Texas, these units are usually in your attic or other tucked away place. You have your condensing unit and compressor outside next to your home. The furnace heats your home in the winter and the air conditioner cools your home in the summer. A heat pump can do both things. Heat pumps are designed for milder climates. Those areas that routinely have freezing temperatures probably has a gas furnace to help heat the home when the temperatures are freezing. For the Spring Texas and surrounding areas, a heat pump works well all year long.
Heat pumps use electricity not fossil fuels to effectively move heat from one place to another. In the cool months, it can take outside air heat it and bring it into your home. In the warm months, it takes your inside warm air and sends it outside. It uses a mechanical compression cycle to accomplish this task more efficiently than a furnace/air conditioning system.
Are heat pumps right for you?
When considering switching to a heat pump system rather than the traditional air conditioner – furnace system, you must consider some factors that may or may not fit your lifestyle. Heat pumps in milder climates like those in southeast Texas are ideal for heat pumps since they both heat and cool your home. You could save money by having one system compared to two systems. With that in mind, heat pumps usually run all year long so may not last as long a the traditional system. Regular maintenance like from our Crown Club program, would extend the life of any equipment.
Since heat pumps run only on electricity, it is better for the environment since it does not burn fossil fuels. As the United States tackles the power grid with incentives on alternative sources of electrical power outside using fossil fuels, it more environmentally conscious to use electricity to power your home comfort systems. The U.S. government recently passed the Inflation Reduction Act that has set aside a massive amount of funds to promote energy efficiency. Take a look at our article on the IRA and how it affects homeowners.
Pros & Cons of Heat Pumps
PROS
- Heat pumps are more efficient and costs less to run
- Heat pumps require less maintenance than combustion systems
- Heat pumps run on electricity not fossil fuels lowering carbon emissions
- Heat pumps typically run very quietly
- One system provides heat and cooling
- Heat pumps generally provide better air quality
CONS
- Heat pumps may cost more initially to install
- Heat pumps are less efficient in extremely cold weather
- Heat pumps use more electricity
- A heat pump may have a shorter life expectancy since it runs all year long
Questions about getting a heat pump? Ask us, we know a thing or two about home comfort systems.
Residential cooling and heating systems are one of the biggest investments in your home and one that directly affects the comfort of you and your family. We understand that at informed decision will go a long way to your happiness. That is why our comfort consultants are not pressure sales type people. We will simply look at your home and talk to you about your needs and wants when it comes to home comfort. We have the products you need to fit your budget and lifestyle. Just honest information. We will present you with solutions as well as payment and financing options. If there are rebates, tax incentives or other seasonal deals, we will let you know. We offer free quotes and estimates for all new equipment installations and a 100% satisfaction guarantee in writing. Schedule your free consultation today!
