What Are Heat Pumps?

If you’re looking into different heating options, heat pumps are great for saving money, energy and time. When it comes to your home, you want to ensure that you have the best, most efficient system for your air conditioning and heating needs. Air Tech of Humble understands this, which is why you can rely on us for information about professional heat pump installation.

What Is A Heat Pump?

Think of heat pumps as something that combines the best of both worlds- heating, and AC, depending on the season. There are various types of heat pumps, the main ones being air-to-air and geothermal.

Heat pumps generate energy from outside sources, such as water, air, or ground. The energy from these sources is then used to either cool or heat up your house.

Air-to Air

The most popular type of heat pump is air-sourced heat pumps—these work by transferring heat from the air outside and into your house. Air source heat pumps have been used in the United States for many years. You’ve most likely seen one outside of buildings! One drawback is that air-to-air pumps are less reliable in places that experience freezing temperatures for an extended period.

Since we’re in Texas, we wouldn’t expect you to run into that problem anytime soon!

Geothermal

Geothermal heat pumps transfer heat from an outside source such as the ground or a water source nearby your home. The initial insulation of geothermal heat pumps is pricy. Still, they save you more money in the long run by having the lowest operating cost. This is because the ground and water have the most constant temperatures.

Unlike air-to-air pumps, geothermal heat pumps tend to fair well in areas with extreme weather. This makes them a great fit over air-to-air heat pumps.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

Heat pumps work precisely in the way the name would suggest- it’s a device that transfers thermal energy to the inside of your home. All heat pumps consist of the same basic components: a pump, condenser, evaporator and an expansive valve. By using a small amount of electricity, it sources heat that can be found from the outside and pumps heat into your house. The heat is specifically transferred by the use of fluids. Water, hydrocarbons and ammonia are the most commonly utilized in these systems.

The opposite of what happens during warmer seasons, the heat is pumped outside of your home, serving as an AC. This is accomplished by reversing the flow of fluid in the coils.

Because of their versatility, heat pumps are an increasingly popular option for homeowners, as opposed to oil and gas options. They’re one of the most energy-efficient options and have low maintenance needs compared to other heating devices.

Why Should You Should Get A Heat Pump

• Lower running costs
• More energy efficient
• Provides cooling and heating
• Requires less maintenance
• Cheaper than oil or gas boilers
• Safer than combustion-based heating
• Longer lifespan

Humble Heating Solutions

For any other heating or cooling services, make sure to contact your local HVAC company- Air Tech Humble! We’ll be sure to answer any questions you may have and suggest the best fit for your home.