Heat pumps offer an energy-efficient, eco-friendly way to heat and cool your home without using fossil fuels or flammable gases, making them suitable for most climates and helping reduce humidity levels.
Learn all about how these devices work, their cost and if you qualify as a candidate. Also included is guidance on selecting an ideal model and finding reliable installers.
Installation
Heat pumps can serve as an energy-saving replacement to fossil-fuel boilers or direct electric heaters for central heating and hot water needs, using significantly less energy as they don’t generate their own heat; rather they transfer thermal energy from air, water or ground into your home (or out again in cooling mode).
Insulation plays a pivotal role in optimizing heat pump performance in any home. A knowledgeable installer can inspect and suggest upgrades for basement, attic and wall insulation to make sure the system operates at maximum efficiency.
Installing a heat pump can save up to 50% off energy costs in cold climates, particularly if you choose a high-efficiency model with good SEER and HSPF ratings – these ratings include energy used to defrost during cold spells as well as any backup heat requirements such as an electric resistance heater in some models.
Consider purchasing an HVAC system that’s appropriate to the size and layout of your house. Too small will make your system ineffective at heating or cooling effectively; while too large will place undue strain on components and increase maintenance costs.
Maintenance
Heat pumps combine the functions of both furnace and air conditioner into one convenient system, saving both money and space in your home.
Homeowners can take some steps themselves to maintain a heat pump, though professional HVAC technicians should be called in once or twice annually for a comprehensive inspection of mechanical components – including blower fan belt and ducts, indoor coils and defrost cycle controls as well as refrigerant levels; an undercharge or overcharge can compromise performance of your heat pump system. You can click the link: https://www.youtube.com/ to learn more about refrigerant.
An outdoor unit that’s been compromised can leak refrigerant, shortening its lifecycle. Ice build-up on coils and fan blades can damage them irreparably; if left to sit for too long it could even corrode compressors and make for irreparable heat pumps.
Schedule maintenance during the fall and spring when temperatures are milder and technicians have more availability.
When choosing an installer for your heat pump system, inquire about warranties backed by them; reputable installers should stand behind their quality work by offering one as part of their package. This may also reduce out-of-pocket expenses if there are issues with it in the future.
Repairs
Heat pumps are generally an economical choice; however, they may still experience issues that need to be resolved by qualified technicians.
This may range from air quality issues to electrical malfunctions; fortunately, an experienced technician is usually capable of quickly troubleshooting these issues and finding suitable repair solutions to restore optimal functionality of their heat pump.
Heat pump repairs typically include replacing any parts that have become worn-down over time, including fan motors, compressors, blowers and evaporator coils.
A professional technician should also inspect your safety switches, defrost timer, reversing valve and crankcase heater to make sure everything works as it should before cleaning evaporator coils and condenser fans to reduce refrigerant leaks or uneven heat distribution in your home.
Heat pumps should be professionally serviced twice annually to ensure they’re operating correctly and efficiently. Reputable local professionals like the ones at M&R Refrigeration can perform these services. Homeowners can do their part between appointments by clearing away snow and ice from the unit in winter, cleaning indoor components like air filters and ductwork, and servicing exterior parts such as condenser motors and drain lines.
M&R Refrigeration
14250 W Mauna Loa Ln, Surprise, AZ 85379, United States
602-703-6125
https://www.mandrrefrigeration.com
Replacement
Your ideal heat pump depends on your location and home size; basic models tend to work best in climate zones 1-3 and provide all of your heating and cooling needs, with occasional cold snaps easily covered by an electric-resistance backup system.
If you live in a colder zone, however, upgrading to one of the models specifically designed for cold climates makes more sense. These furnaces will work more effectively during wintertime while offering greater comfort than traditional gas furnaces in many cases.
High SEER and HSPF ratings may cost more upfront, but their greater energy efficiency typically pays for itself over time with lower energy costs. You can further lower energy costs with professional insulation and air sealing upgrades from Sealed-approved contractors.
Lastly, if you need to add heating and cooling in areas your current system cannot reach, modular heat pumps are often more cost-effective than expanding ductwork or installing hydronics systems. They’re easily installed into garage workshops, attic hangouts, bonus rooms or home additions with minimal disruption.