When thinking about heating and cooling needs for your home, the question of heat pump vs air conditioner is commonly asked. Specifically, you are interested in the differences between each system and how to know which is best for your home.
Both these systems have benefits. Your budget and your home’s individual heating and cooling needs will determine which system will work best for you.
HEAT PUMP VS AIR CONDITIONER: HOW THEY WORK
The difference between a heat pump and air conditioner is rather straightforward. Both systems are a type of ‘heat pump’ as they transfer heat from the inside of your home to the outside, cooling the inside temperatures. Both systems also use a refrigerant system.
The only real difference between heat pumps and air conditioners is that a heat pump can reverse itself to transfer heat from outside, raising indoor temperatures and thus, providing heating when needed. The heat pump does this by utilizing a reversing valve built into the compressor.
Air conditioners, on the other hand, can only pump heat in one direction – outside of your home, keeping the inside cool.
THE BENEFITS OF A HEAT PUMP
Heat pumps:
- Have a higher upfront cost but are more energy efficient than other systems and can help you save on your energy costs over time
- Are safer than combustion-based heating systems
- Usually offer up to fifteen years of reliable service
- Can reverse the process of transferring heat to cool or heat your home, depending on the season
- Require less regular maintenance than other systems
- Are available in compact systems and can be a good choice if you have an issue with space
- Improve indoor air quality by reducing dust and other allergens present in the environment
- Are often considered a form of renewable energy. There are sometimes government funds available to help with the installation of renewable heat systems. Ask the team at Custom Comfort about eligible programs in your area.
THE BENEFITS OF AIR CONDITIONERS
Air Conditioners:
- Give you a cool, comfortable home in the summer
- Cost less upfront
- Are a good choice if you already have a good working furnace and only need a cooling option (rather than a system that will heat and cool your home)
- Are compact and can be a good choice if you have an issue with space
- Can last on average between fifteen to twenty years
- Improve indoor air quality by reducing dust and other allergens present in the environment.
HEAT PUMP VS AC : WHICH OPTION IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
When it comes to choosing between a heat pump or air conditioner there are a lot of factors to consider. Your best bet is to get an expert opinion and find the right system for you. Contact Custom Comfort for all your heating and cooling needs.
