Types of Heat Pumps

Are you in the market for a new heating and cooling system? An energy-efficient heat pump could be precisely what you need. Most people know less about heat pumps than they do about furnaces or air conditioners, but new, energy-efficient models can split your heating costs in half. They also supply cooling in the warm months for year-round comfort from a single system.

If we’ve piqued your interest, now you can learn more from the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning about available types of heat pumps before you decide what’s best for your home.

What Makes Heat Pumps So Special?

Heat pumps are a unique genre of HVAC system that provide heating and cooling. In the hot months, they work similarly to an air conditioner, using electricity to pull heat from your home. In the winter, a reversing valve allows the equipment to run in reverse, drawing in heat inside to heat your home.

Apart from this dual functionality, heat pumps are known for their amazing efficiency. Because they transport heat rather than produce it from a fuel source, heat pumps can achieve more than 300% efficiency. This contrasts with a max of 98% efficiency for the most efficient available gas-fired furnaces. By opting for a heat pump, you’re not just choosing comfort; you’re selecting a setup geared toward sustainability and energy savings.

Three Main Types of Heat Pumps

Although heat pumps have a number of subcategories, each system falls into one of these main types:

Air-source heat pumps

This is the most popular type of heat pump. Installing them is generally straightforward, and these systems perform exceptionally well in moderate climates. Air source heat pumps use the ambient air as a medium for heat exchange. In other words, they remove heat from the outside air during the winter and draw heat out of your home during the summer.

Water-source heat pumps

If your home is situated next to a body of water like a lake, pond or well, a water-source heat pump might be an efficient way to go. These systems run using water as the means for heat exchange, providing another efficiency boost. While less common than air-source heat pumps because of the need for water nearby, these are a worthwhile option for homeowners with the suitable environmental conditions.

Ground-source or geothermal heat pumps

If you are searching for the single most efficient climate control method around, ground-source or geothermal heat pumps are good systems to consider. These units use the earth’s stable underground temperature to supply consistent and extremely efficient heating and cooling. The downside to this variety of heat pump, however, is the complexity and cost of installation, which often calls for excavation to lay underground pipes.

Heat Pump Subtypes

As soon as you know what heat pump style you would like to install in your home, the next step is to choose the proper subtype. Your choices include:

Hybrid heat pumps

If you live in an area with extreme temperature swings, hybrid heat pumps can provide the best of both worlds. These heat pumps are available in two forms:

  • Combination air- and ground-source heat pumps toggle between these two methods of operation, adjusting to current weather conditions for the best efficiency.
  • Combination air-source heat pumps and gas furnaces depend on the heat pump during mild weather. Then, when temperatures plummet, the gas-fired furnace starts up, cutting down on the use of energy compared to the backup electric resistance heating coils that come standard.

Solar heat pumps

Combining green energy with home heating and cooling is a terrific way to reduce your energy bills and benefit the environment. Solar heat pumps work using power created by solar panels, the perfect setup for eco-conscious homeowners who still want to benefit from modern climate control.

Heat Pump Installation Options

You have even more choices for installation of your heat pump:

Split-system heat pumps

This is the regular setup for most homes already outfitted with ductwork. The indoor unit is often installed in the basement, attic or utility closet, while the outside unit sits on a concrete slab in your yard.

Packaged heat pumps

In this type of installation, all mechanical pieces are housed in a single outdoor unit, often installed on the roof. This is ideal for homes or commercial buildings that don’t have much indoor or yard space.

Ductless mini-split heat pumps

Ductless systems, also called mini-split systems, are created for homes and additions that don’t have any ductwork. Each and every room can have its own indoor unit attached to a single outdoor unit, supplying targeted climate control and energy savings.

Window heat pumps

These streamlined units are best suited for small spaces or to meet passing needs. While less efficient than other selections, they provide quick and uncomplicated installation.

Choose Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Your Heat Pump Needs in Fort Lauderdale

If it’s time to install a heat pump, choose the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. With decades of combined experience, 24/7 emergency service and a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can expect a job well done every time. Our qualified technicians will see to it your heat pump system is tailored to your needs, from installation to routine maintenance to occasional repairs.

Do you want to indulge in home comfort and efficiency like never before? Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for heat pump installation in Fort Lauderdale. Call 954-736-4314 today for your free, no-obligation estimate!

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