Archives: April 15, 2015

Why Install a Heat Pump as an AC Replacement

At one point or the other you must replace your air conditioning system. This could be due to wear and tear, breakdowns or simply an upgrade! Many homeowners find it inappropriate and counter-intuitive to swap their AC systems with a heat pump. The question that is frequently asked is – why would you replace an air conditioner with a heat pump? Well, the devil is in the details.

If you have read about or know how a heat pump operates, you will appreciate the sensibility of this decision. The installation of a heat pump in place of an AC may not be the best of choices but it is legitimate as supported by the below analysis.

Cooling and Heating Functions

The working of a heat pump is similar to that of an AC in the sense that both use a refrigerant to transfer heat from one part of the system to the other. However, the difference is a heat pump has the ability to operate in both directions; it can move heat into and out of the house. Even though they cost a little bit more, heat pumps will save you the need to maintain an AC unit for cooling and an electric or gas-powered furnace for heating. This will mean reduced maintenance cost and increased efficiency.

Energy Efficiency

The cost of running a heat pump in air conditioning mode is pretty much the same as that of an air conditioning unit. However, in the heating mode they cost less to power compared to boilers or furnaces. Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat from one place to another making the power consumed to be much less (about 30 percent less) than that used by other heating systems which burn fuel to generate heat.

Depending on the heat pump system you choose, you may be eligible for energy tax credits which means more savings on your energy expenditure.

Even though heat pumps struggle a little bit during winter due to the low temperatures, the Miami climate is ideal and ensures the heat pump in your house doesn’t encounter any temperature-related operational difficulties.

There is no Sacrifice in Cooling Capacity

Heat pumps perform two functions that is heating and cooling but this doesn’t mean they split up their power. As a matter of fact, they have the same cooling capacity just as air conditioners of comparable size. When the heat pump is running in the AC mode you won’t even notice the difference.

It is therefore important before you make the replacement, to have a professionally-done load calculation so you choose a system that is right for your home. Every structure is unique in terms of energy needs and only through an in-depth inspection will you be able to tell what size and capacity of system to install.