The climate in Berryville, Virginia, tends to get chilly during the winter months, so residents need a functional heating system to stay comfortable. A heat pump is an efficient heating option that many homeowners are interested in to save energy while maintaining a warm temperature indoors. In the past, heat pumps only worked in moderate climates and didn’t offer enough heat when the temperature dropped too low. However, new split-system heat pump technology is making this option viable to those in Berryville and other areas with colder climates.
What Is a Split-System Heat Pump?
A split-system heat pump uses refrigerant as the fluid for heat exchange and includes a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator as separate components. Refrigerant piping connects these components to enable the unit to function properly. You may be familiar with the idea of split-system technology because most residential central air conditioning systems rely on it to work. The condenser and compressor are housed in an outdoor unit, while the evaporator sits below the furnace blower. The parts are connected via two refrigerant lines, one of which has gas for the heating component, while the other transports refrigerant liquid.
This technology in a heat pump enables the system to reverse the condenser and evaporator functions, which means it can both heat and cool the space. When it’s warm outside, a heat pump works in the same way as a refrigerator, using refrigerant to move heat outside and lower the indoor temperature. During the colder months, the heat pump will move heat inside, quickly and effectively warming up the room.
Benefits of Heat Pumps
As utility prices continue to rise, homeowners are looking for ways to keep their costs under control. A heat pump is an extremely efficient option for heating and cooling a home. In fact, heat pumps use less energy than furnaces and air conditioning systems, so you’ll likely see a significant drop in your monthly energy bills by relying on this option. Heat pumps don’t burn any fossil fuels to produce heat. They don’t rely on gas or electricity the way a traditional heating and cooling system does, so they are more eco-friendly.
Using a heat pump for both heating and cooling in your home can also help reduce your HVAC maintenance and repair costs. You’ll only have a single system to maintain, rather than a furnace and a central air conditioner. If an issue does arise with the heat pump, an HVAC technician can diagnose and repair the problem quickly. Additionally, heat pumps don’t require routine maintenance, so you can save on costs associated with regular furnace and AC tuneups.
Using a Heat Pump With an Alternate Heat Source
If the temperature drops well below freezing, a heat pump still may not be able to provide enough heat to warm up your entire home. In this case, you may choose to add a heat pump to use in conjunction with an alternate heat source, such as your existing furnace. Although you won’t save quite as much energy as you would by switching to the heat pump exclusively, you can still take advantage of the improved energy efficiency by using the heat pump whenever it’s not too cold.
Continued Technological Improvements
Heat pump technology continues to improve as major manufacturers invest in the research and development needed to make these units better for use in cold climates. Keep an eye out for additional updates or talk to an HVAC expert to find out whether a heat pump would be a good option to heat and cool your home. Since these units are substantially more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems, they are especially appealing to those who want to trim their costs while reducing energy waste.
A heat pump may be a great addition to your home, depending on your current heating and cooling setup. At Griffith Energy Services, Inc., we install heat pumps for clients frequently, so we can answer any questions you may have and go through the benefits. Contact us at 888-474-3391.
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