Should You Invest in a Heat Pump?

The weather in Allen, TX, is pretty mild for the most part, but there are still a few days each year when the temperature dips below freezing. A heat pump can be a great way to keep your home warm during those cold snaps.

Thinking about whether or not to invest in a heating installation service Allen, TX, for a heat pump? Here's what you should know! 

What Is a Heat Pump and How Does It Work? 

A heat pump is a type of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system that uses refrigerant to absorb heat from the outdoor air and transfers it into your home. In the summer, the process is reversed, and the heat pump removes heat from your home and releases it outdoors. 

This type of heating system is most effective in moderate climates, like the one we have here in Allen, TX. They can struggle in very cold or hot weather because they rely on the air outside to provide heat or coolness for your home. 

Theoretically, a heat pump can heat an entire house; however, it is not always the most practical or efficient option. If a home is massive or has multiple levels, getting a heating installation service Allen, TX, might be better for a separate heat pump for each floor or area. 

Additionally, if a residential space has very high ceilings or is poorly insulated, a heat pump may not be able to heat the entire room effectively. In these cases, supplemental heating sources (such as furnaces or fireplaces) may be necessary to maintain comfortable temperatures.

Heat Pumps vs. Air Conditioner – Which Is Better?

The main difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is that a heat pump can both heat and cool your home, while an air conditioner only cools. 

Air conditioners work by circulating refrigerant through a closed-loop. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air and releases it outdoors. This process continues until the desired temperature is reached. 

While heat pumps also circulate refrigerant through a closed-loop, the direction of the flow is reversed in winter. The heat pump removes heat from the outdoor air and transfers it into your home. 

But energy-efficiency wise, which one is better? 

The U.S. Department of Energy states that heat pumps are about 3% to 5% more efficient than air conditioners. But this difference in efficiency is only noticeable if you live in a moderate climate and use your heat pump year-round. 

Advantages Heat Pumps Can Offer

Now that we've covered the basics of heat pumps, let's take a closer look at some of their advantages. 

• Installation is typically less expensive. While the initial cost of a heat pump may be higher than an air conditioner, the installation costs are usually lower. This is because heat pumps don't require additional ductwork (as forced-air systems do), and they can often be installed using the existing ductwork from your home's previous HVAC system.
• Operates more quietly. One common complaint about air conditioners is that they are noisy. The outdoor unit of a typical AC system can produce quite a racket, particularly when it first turns on. Heat pumps, on the other hand, tend to operate more quietly. 
• Offers year-round comfort. As we mentioned earlier, heat pumps can heat and cool your home. This makes them an excellent option for year-round comfort in moderate climates. If you live in an area with frigid winters or sweltering summers, however, a heat pump may not be able to keep up with your heating and cooling needs. 
•  More energy efficient. Heat pumps are also more energy-efficient than other HVAC systems, like furnaces and air conditioners, since they only use less energy to move heat (rather than generate it), saving you money on your energy bills.

For heating installation service Allen, TX, GO Heating, Air & Plumbing can be your contractor of choice. It offers a wide range of heating and cooling services, including heat pump installation, repair, and maintenance. You can drop a call at 972-236-4974 to schedule a consultation today.