In Pierre, heat pumps can be a popular option for heating and cooling your residence.
They seem almost like an air conditioner. In fact, they operate in a similar fashion during high temperatures. Due to a reversing valve, they can move humidity in the opposite direction as well as heat your residence in the winter.
Not sure if you rely on a heat pump or an air conditioner? All you have to do is locate the model number on the outdoor unit and run it online. If it turns out you have a heat pump, or you’re thinking over getting one, find out how this HVAC unit keeps houses comfortable.
How Heat Pumps Operate
Heat pumps use a refrigeration system similar to an air conditioner. Most can work akin to a ductless mini-split, because they can heat and cool. Heat pumps use an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condensing coil. Refrigerant is sent through these coils to move heat. The outdoor unit also uses a compressor and is encircled by metal fins that work as a heat sink to help transfer heat efficiently.
Summertime Cooling
When your heat pump is set to cooling, the refrigerant is in the evaporator coil. Air from inside the house is distributed over the coil, and the refrigerant removes humidity. Wetness in the air also condenses on the coil, dripping into the condensate pan below and moves away. The ensuing dehumidified air flows through the ductwork and back into your house.
At the same time, the refrigerant flows a compressor on its way to the outdoor coil. This constricts the refrigerant, leading it to get hotter. As it moves through the condensing coil, the outside fan and metal fins help to emit heat to the exterior. The refrigerant heads back inside, traveling through an expansion valve that lowers its temperature it significantly, readying it to start the process from the start.
When your heat pump is installed and maintained properly, you’ll enjoy efficient cooling comparable to a high-performance air conditioner.
Wintertime Heating
When your heat pump is set to heat, the heat exchange process occurs the opposite way. By flowing in the opposing direction, refrigerant removes heat from the outdoor air and vents it into your home to warm the interior.
Heat pumps working in heating mode are most efficient when the temperature is above freezing outside. If it gets too frigid, a backup electric resistance heater kicks on to keep your residence cozy, but your heating costs rise as a result.
Heat pumps operate longer than furnaces because the air doesn’t get as warm. This helps sustain a more balanced indoor temperature. Additionally, because heat pumps move hot air rather than making it from a fuel source, they can operate well above 100% efficiency. You can anticipate 30–40% savings on your heating bills by using a heat pump.
Request Heat Pump Installation or Service Right Away
Heat pumps are environmentally friendly and economical. They are a substitute for the standard AC/furnace system and need the same amount of maintenance—one service in the spring and another in the fall.
If you want to install a heat pump, Peitz Service Experts is the contractor to call. We’ll size and install your system to match your heating and cooling needs. And then we’ll support our installation with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year. To learn more, contact us at 605-223-0307 today.