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How Do Heat Pumps Work, and What are Their Benefits?

Enjoying Comfort From Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are heating and cooling systems that move heat from one area to another. An excellent example of a heat pump in Annapolis, MD, is the refrigerator, which transfers heat inside to the outside using a compressor coil. Although refrigerators work in one way, they’re a perfect example of how heat pumps work.

How Heat Pumps Work

During cold seasons at Annapolis, MD, the heat pump will transfer heat from the outside into your home. The cost of heating your home via a traditional HVAC system may amount to expensive utility bills. However, a heat pump is efficient and cost-effective.

Using a compressor, the heat pump moves hot air through a circulating structure of gas or liquid from outside into your home. The same process happens during summer when the heat pump pumps the heat from your home to the outdoors. Pumping heat uses less electricity and is an efficient alternative to oil and fuel systems.

Since heat flows from a hot region to a lower temperature area, the pump reverses the process and brings heat to a higher temperature area. It uses refrigerator coils, two fans, a compressor and a reversing valve for the process to work.

Stages of Heating for Heat Pumps

Single-stage is the conventional heating stage, where the system is either on or off. It contains a fixed gas valve with a single fixed blower and operates at the same speed despite the outside temperatures. The single-stage system isn’t as energy efficient as the second two-stage heating system.

Two-stage heating contains a variable speed motor blower. It allows your heat pump to run in two settings: the mild weather and high weather settings. It also runs for long hours with minimal noise and well-distributed heat.

COP Benefits

When it comes to measuring the cost of heating in-home, the coefficient of performance (COP) compares heat delivery versus energy used. In terms of COP ratings, heat pumps have a better score compared to other methods of heating. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a heat pump can reduce your energy usage by up to 30–60%.

Meanwhile, heat pumps are also more efficient than other heating systems. For instance, at 50 degrees for every kWh unit of electricity used, the heat pump will produce about 3.3 kWh of heat. In addition to efficiency, a more advanced heat pump will heat your water by using integrated systems.

Multiple Units in One

By reversing the transfer heat process, the heat pump will dehumidify your home and make it cool. This makes heat pumps an excellent alternative to air conditioners.

Maintenance

A heat pump is easily maintained without much hassle. Maintaining a heating system is essential and helps lower your utility bills and keep the system running effectively. However, heat pumps have lower maintenance demands, but that doesn’t mean you neglect them.

When your heat pump breaks down, the air handlers start to function to provide heat. You may not notice immediately, but you will notice increased energy bills upon receiving your utility bills. Therefore, we recommend regular maintenance to prevent the breakdown of your heat pump.

Safer

Carbon emission is one of the reasons for annual furnace maintenance. Carbon leakages pose a threat to you and your family and may lead to fatalities. Therefore, selecting a heat pump will not only save you money but keep your family and yourself healthy from poisonous gases.

Long-Lasting and Reliable

Another benefit of choosing a heat pump is its lifespan. Heat pumps have a lifespan of about 15 years. Keep in mind that proper maintenance for your heating and cooling system will lead to a longer lifespan.

Contact Coastal Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. when you need heating installation services. Additionally, we provide repairs for all heat pump models and makes. Contact us today for any heat pump services you need.

Image provided by iStock

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