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Could You Save Money with a Heat Pump?

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Could You Save Money with a Heat Pump?

If you’re thinking about updating your home’s HVAC system, consider an energy-efficient heat pump. Heat pumps provide more heating and cooling efficiency using less energy than other types of systems, which translates to lower bills and greater comfort all year long. Consider your options carefully and see whether a heat pump provides the perfect solution for your Largo, Florida, home.

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What is a Heat Pump?

Despite its name, a heat pump is actually a compression-cycle refrigeration system which can use both hot and cold air to control a home’s temperature. The system consists of two main parts: an exterior unit and an indoor air handler. It uses a compressor to circulate the refrigerant throughout the system, which releases or absorbs heat as needed.

Because a heat pump uses a liquid refrigerant, it absorbs heat directly from the air as the refrigerant evaporates. During the summer, all the heat the system collects from inside the home is sent to the outdoor unit where it’s released into the air. The reverse happens during the winter. The system draws heat from the outdoor air and transfers it indoors.

Think of it as a heat transportation system that moves warm air around, getting rid of it when you don’t want it and providing it when you do.

Does a Heat Pump Really Save Money?

Heat pumps cost less to operate than a furnace because they use less energy to produce more heat. One of the biggest perks of having a heat pump is that it uses electricity instead of fuel. In moderate climates such as Florida’s, heat pumps are preferred over any other system because residents can use them as supplemental heating options while still enjoying their tremendous cooling power. Essentially, it costs less to move heat around than to make it.

Can a Heat Pump Really Cool a Florida Home?

There’s virtually no difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner. Both systems are designed to keep your home cool and dehumidified during the summer.

In terms of energy efficiency, there’s also not much difference between a heat pump and AC. Both appliances are rated with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, so how efficient the unit is all depends on this rating, not the system choice itself.

The biggest advantage to owning a heat pump over an air conditioner is that you have a built-in heating option for those few chilly winter nights. ACs don’t provide heat because they’re what’s known as “straight cool systems.” You can have a resistance heater element installed in the air handler, which works similar to a toaster, but the costs associated with running the heating element on an AC quickly add up.

What Are Some Other Benefits of Having a Heat Pump?

Aside from its lower operating costs and efficient operation, a heat pump also removes humidity from homes. In Florida’s humid subtropical climate, this feature is key. Be sure to purchase the highest-efficiency heat pump that will fit your budget.

Heat pumps are also safer to operate than furnaces and resistance heaters. There are no hot, burning parts used to generate heat. Even better, because heat pumps use electricity, your family doesn’t have to worry about carbon monoxide poisoning which can accompany combustible appliances such as traditional heaters.

With so many reasons to upgrade to an energy-efficient heat pump, why not talk to an expert about your options? Call Pinellas Comfort Systems at (727) 315-0791 to speak with a friendly HVAC representative. We’ll assess your needs and help you decide on the best heat pump for your circumstances.

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