If you are interested in upgrading your air conditioning equipment this summer, you may be considering a heat pump. Despite their name, these systems provide heating and cooling relief, and are an extremely energy-efficient alternative to traditional HVAC equipment. But if you are planning on installing one during the warmer months, you probably want to know: do heat pumps work better in the winter or the summer? Keep reading for the answers you’re looking for, and remember that you can count on our HVAC experts at A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical for all your home comfort needs.
Winter v. Summer Heat Pump Operation
In some ways, heat pumps are similar to traditional AC units. Both kinds of equipment use refrigerant to change the temperature in your home. More specifically, when refrigerant boils and evaporates at low temperatures, it is then pressurized, allowing your system to absorb heat from inside your home. This in turn causes your indoor air to drop in temperature, while the air handler begins dehumidifying your air as well. The major benefit of heat pumps is that they are able to reverse this process, absorbing heat from the outside air and releasing it into your home to warm your space during the winter.
To reiterate, the cooling process with heat pumps works similarly as it does with traditional air conditioners. Therefore, the efficiency level of a heat pump remains basically the same as the efficiency level of an air conditioner, regardless of how hot it is outside. To determine how efficient your cooling system is exactly, look for the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency) rating. These typically range from 15 to 21 in both heat pumps and air conditioners. On the other hand, comparing heat pumps to traditional heating systems is not as easy.
Heat pumps do not rely on fuel, as opposed to traditional forced air systems, like furnaces, which automatically makes them more energy-efficient. However, in parts of the country where the temperature can reach below zero, heat pumps may not be powerful enough to heat your whole home, as there is less heat in the air for them to extract and they have to defrost ice buildup as well. So in short, heat pumps work better in the summer if you live in a colder climate—though if you live somewhere more temperate, a heat pump should be able to provide you with adequate heating and cooling relief year-round.
Top reasons homeowners install a heat pump include:
- They provide heating and cooling power
- They are extremely energy-efficient
- They are more environmentally friendly than traditional HVAC systems (because they don’t burn fuel, and therefore generate fewer greenhouse gases)
- They cycle on and off less frequently, allowing you to enjoy consistent temperatures
- They can help reduce humidity levels in warmer climates
Call A-TEMP Today for All Your Heating & Cooling Needs
When you need help staying cool this summer, just remember that our seasoned HVAC techs at A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical are always here for you. We offer heat pump installation as well as repair and maintenance service, so your new heat pump remains energy-efficient year-round. Our work is also fully guaranteed, so you are always 100% satisfied no matter what type of service you get. Contact us today for available deals and specials, and remember, with extended hours at no charge, there’s no wrong time to call our HVAC pros at A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical.
To schedule heat pump service or something else, dial (503) 694-3396. You can also click here to send us a message online.