In Gaithersburg, heat pumps can be a popular solution for heating and cooling your residence.
They seem about the same as an air conditioner. In reality, they work in a similar fashion during hot weather. Because of a reversing valve, they can move heat in the opposite direction as well as add warmth to your residence in the winter.
Not sure if you use a heat pump or an air conditioner? Just locate the model number on the outdoor unit and look it up online. If you discover you own a heat pump, or you’re thinking over buying one, find out how this HVAC equipment keeps homes comfy.
How Heat Pumps Work
Heat pumps depend on a refrigeration system much like an air conditioner. Most can work similar to a ductless mini-split, since they can heat and cool. Heat pumps depend on an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condensing coil. Refrigerant is sent through these coils to shift humidity. The outdoor unit also has a compressor and is encircled by metal fins that work as a heat sink to help shift humidity properly.
Summertime Cooling
When your heat pump is cooling, the refrigerant starts in the evaporator coil. Air from indoors is distributed over the coil, and the refrigerant extracts heat. Water in the air also condenses on the coil, dropping into the condensate pan below and drains away. The ensuing cool air circulates through the ductwork and back into your home.
At the same time, the refrigerant flows a compressor on its way to the outdoor coil. This compresses the refrigerant, leading it to heat up even more. As it goes through the condensing coil, the exterior fan and metal fins help to discharge heat to the exterior. The refrigerant heads back indoors, moving through an expansion valve that lowers its temperature it considerably, readying it to go through the process from the beginning.
When your heat pump is replaced and maintained appropriately, you’ll receive efficient cooling equivalent to a high-performance air conditioner.
Wintertime Heating
In heating mode, the heat exchange process takes place the opposite way. By traveling in the opposing direction, refrigerant pulls heat from the outdoor air and vents it into your house to warm the inside.
Heat pumps running in heating mode are most effective when the temperature is above freezing outside. If it turns too cold, a backup electric resistance heater starts to keep your house comfortable, but your heating expenses go up as a result.
Heat pumps run longer than furnaces since the air doesn’t get as hot. This helps sustain a more balanced indoor temperature. Additionally, because heat pumps move warmth rather than creating it from a fuel source, they can work well above 100% efficiency. You can anticipate 30–40% savings on your heating bills by getting a heat pump.
Request Heat Pump Installation or Service Today
Heat pumps are good for the environment and cost-effective. They are an alternative to the standard AC/furnace system and require the same amount of maintenance—one appointment in the spring and another in the fall.
If you’re interested in installing a heat pump, Parker Pearce Service Experts is the Expert to contact. We’ll size and install your system to meet your heating and cooling demands. And then we’ll uphold our services with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year. For more information, contact us at 301-476-4577 now.