Getting To Know Your Heat Pump

Heat pumps are a popular choice for climate control, but most people don’t know much about these systems. If you already have a heat pump or you’re interested in getting one for your Hillsborough, North Carolina, home, this quick guide will tell you everything you need to know.

How Does It Work?

During cold weather, the system draws in heat from the air and moves it into your home. While it may seem counterintuitive to get heat from cold air, there’s heat energy even in chilly weather. The pump takes that energy and moves it into your home to provide the warmth your household needs.

When the weather warms up again, the heat pump does the opposite, removing heat from your home and replacing it with cool air. It accomplishes this via a reversing valve. Whether in heating or cooling mode, because of this innovative technology, heat pumps don’t consume a lot of energy. This entire process is efficient and effective year-round.

Heat Pump vs. Furnace

A heat pump and a furnace are fundamentally different systems. Furnaces create heat by burning fuel—whether gas or oil. If you have a furnace, you will also need to invest in a cooling system. Depending on your needs and the weather demands, heat pumps can be a better option. Apart from the energy-saving advantage, they require less space and have lower installation costs.

Heat Pump vs. Central Air Conditioning

It’s hard to distinguish a central air conditioning system from a heat pump just by looking. The designs are the same—it’s only the reversing valve that sets them apart. Air conditioners can only cool your home. If you own an air conditioner, you’ll also need a separate unit like a furnace for heating. A heat pump both heats and cools.

If you’re interested in upgrading to a heat pump for your home or want to know more, we’re happy to offer a consultation. Give your team at Warren-Hay Mechanical a call at 919-732-4362 today!

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