In Louisiana, we know a thing or two about air conditioning. The extreme heat and humidity make cooling systems a staple in most homes, but what about heat pumps? Will they still work with the high temperatures we face in Hammond? (Spoiler: yes, they will!)
At Foulks Southern Air, we understand how difficult it is to choose a new heating or cooling unit for your home. That’s why we’re here to explain how heat pumps work and how they compare to traditional AC units. Hopefully, this guide to heat pumps will give you a new option to improve your home!
Cooling And Heating Options
Typically, systems will either A) cool the air in your home, or B) distribute hot air through your house. So, we’ve gathered a few of these traditional system options for you:
- Furnaces use combustion to create heat, which then flows into a heat exchanger and warms the metal. The hot metal heats the air circulating around it, and that warm air is distributed through your home.
- Boilers use gas, electricity or oil to create heat and boil the water inside of your boiler tank. Then, it sends the steam or hot water through your home to radiate heat and warm your house.
- Central AC units have a system containing an evaporator coil, condenser, compressor and liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant evaporates in the coil and removes the heat from your air to cool your home.
While these systems are definitely effective, they’re limited to one function, but a heat pump is not. Heat pumps have even more standout features that give them a competitive edge in the HVAC world!
What Is A Heat Pump?
Heat pumps have the best of both heating and cooling systems because they do both! Unlike a furnace, heat pumps do not create heat. Instead, they transfer heat energy from one place to another, meaning they work in any temperature.
In summer, heat pumps work just like an air conditioner.
They pull hot air from your home, remove the heat from the air and cool it with refrigerant. Then, the cold air is circulated back into your home, while the refrigerant changes between a liquid and gaseous form. Finally, the excess heat from the coolant gas is released outside, and the low-pressure gas changes back into a liquid, ready for the cycle to begin again.
And in winter, the heat pump will circulate hot air into your home.
Unlike furnaces and boilers, heat pumps do not use combustion to heat your air. Instead, it uses the summer process of heat energy transfer, but in reverse. The heat pump pulls the heat energy from the outdoor air (no matter the temperature) in order to warm the air inside your house.
Advantages Of Heat Pumps
“If it ain’t broke…” This old saying might hold true in other cases, but your heating and cooling systems are an exception. Traditional systems like central air and furnaces can be reliable but don’t overlook the benefits of heat pumps.
- Heat pumps use up to 50% less energy than conventional gas and electric heating systems.
- Many heat pumps earn an ENERGY STAR label for being more energy efficient than standard heating appliances.
- They tend to be safer because they don’t rely on combustion or fuel. Because of this, there is a lower risk of hazards like fires and carbon monoxide leaks.
- Heat pump installation is possible in (almost) any home. Heat pumps can work with your existing ductwork and they even come in ductless mini-split options, too!
- It’s a 2-in-1 system. You only need to pay for one system for your heating and cooling, so you only need maintenance checks on one system. Also, that system takes up less space!
There are many advantages to heat pumps, from versatility to improved safety, but their energy efficiency is truly impressive! Plus, who doesn’t like to save on their electric bill? The convenience of an all-in-one system is important to consider because it can definitely be revolutionary for your home.
Reliable Heat Pump Installation For Hammond Homeowners
If you’re considering upgrading your heating and cooling system, it’s time to call Foulks Southern Air! We understand the struggles of Louisiana’s subtropical climate, so we’re proud to provide comprehensive solutions and services to Covington and Hammond residents.
Whether you need a new heat pump installed or an emergency AC repair, you can always count on the folks at Foulks!
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