Heat Pumps: Frequently Asked Questions
Heat pumps are arguably the most efficient of all the different heating and cooling systems—but they’re also one of the most misunderstood. Even the name can be misleading. After all, heat pumps do more than just heat; they can also be used for cooling. There are also different types of heat pump systems with important distinctions in design and application.
So, to clear the air, this article will answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about heat pumps, including what they are, how they work, their benefits, and how to tell when a heat pump is malfunctioning.
What Is a Heat Pump, Exactly?
A heat pump is an HVAC system that uses electricity and chemical refrigerant to transfer heat from one space to another. It works in virtually the same way as an air conditioner—and in fact, heat pumps can be used as both a heater and an AC.
Heat pump systems involve two units—an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. In heating mode, the outdoor unit draws heat energy from the air or the ground into an array of metal coils. A chemical refrigerant inside these coils is then pumped to a similar set of coils in the indoor unit, where a fan blows over the coils to release the heat energy into the home. The refrigerant then travels back to the outdoor unit to repeat the process.
Of course, there’s not a lot of heat to draw from the outdoor air in the dead of winter – but as the chemical refrigerant absorbs whatever heat there is, it evaporates from a liquid into a gas. The gas then passes through a compressor on its way to the indoor unit, compressing it and further raising its temperature. If the heat pump is switched to cooling mode, the process is simply reversed so that the indoor unit removes heat from the indoor air and releases it outside, just like a typical air conditioner.
What Are the Benefits of Heat Pump Installation?
Heat pumps have several advantages over other types of heating systems. For one thing, they save the trouble of installing separate heating and cooling systems since they can be used as both a heater and AC. Secondly, heat pumps (especially today’s models) are highly energy efficient, so they can help save money on utility bills. Many homeowners may even qualify for tax breaks and rebates for installing an energy-efficient heat pump system.
Installing a ductless (AKA mini split heat pump) system may further benefit some homes. Whereas ducted heat pump systems use air ducts to deliver heated (or cooled) air throughout the home, ductless systems feature small indoor units installed in multiple rooms, which deliver the air directly. Mini split heat pump systems offer more dynamic temperature control. They can be even more energy-efficient since they allow homeowners to heat or cool individual rooms instead of the entire house.
What Are the Signs That a Heat Pump Needs Repairs?
For those who already have a heat pump, particularly an older one, it’s useful to know the signs of a failing heat pump. After all, no one wants to be stuck without heat when their heat pump unexpectedly breaks down in the middle of winter! Some clues that the heat pump may need repairs include:
- The heat pump won’t turn on.
- The air from the vents isn’t warm (or cool if the system is in cooling mode).
- Weak or no airflow coming from the vents.
- The house isn’t reaching the desired temperature.
- The system only runs for a minute or two before turning off again (called “short-cycling”).
- The system runs constantly without turning off.
- Higher than usual energy bills.
- Strange odors are coming from the air vents.
- Strange sounds from the indoor or outdoor unit (banging, screeching, rattling, excessive vibration, etc.)
If homeowners notice any of these signs, they should call a reliable HVAC company for heat pump repair before the problem worsens!
About Davis Heating & Cooling
Since its founding in 2001, Davis Heating & Cooling has become one of Flemington, NJ's most trusted and highly-rated HVAC companies. Their highly trained and knowledgeable staff are available 24/7 for emergencies, so customers will always get a live person on the phone, day or night. They offer up-front pricing, financing, 10-year parts & labor warranties, a money-saving membership program, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so there’s no one better to call for heat pump installation in Flemington, NJ!
