Commonly Asked Questions About Heat Pumps
Heat pumps aren’t new technology, but they’ve been growing in popularity in the US for some years now. Many people know that heat pumps have cooling and heating features, improved efficiency, and a substantial life expectancy. Even so, we still get plenty of questions about them. Here are just a few of them answered for you:
Are they Better Than Normal Air Conditioners?
We don’t like dealing in absolutes, but we can say absolutely “Yes.”
The reason for that is simply because a heat pump already operates as a normal air conditioner, but it comes with the bonus of including a heater. If you’ve ever wanted an air conditioner and know that the time for replacing your heater is coming up, you can hit two birds with one stone by upgrading to a heat pump.
Are They Better Than Gas Furnaces?
In terms of efficiency, yes. The process that’s used to create heat through natural gas and combustion is much more energy-intensive than the heat transference used by heat pumps.
While gas furnaces are certainly quick and efficient heaters in low temperatures, operating them in moderately cold temperatures is a bit overkill. Heat pumps, on the other hand, can heat in both low temperatures and moderately cold temperatures without tanking the efficiency.
Keep in mind that you’ll probably read many things online saying that heat pumps fail to stay as efficient as gas furnaces, especially when temperatures drop below 30°F. While this is true of some heat pumps, you can take solace that Mitsubishi ductless heat pumps have eliminated this problem. They’re able to stay efficient in temperatures as low as -13°F.
Does My Home Need to Be Compatible With Them?
When you add any new electrical appliance to your home, you’ll want to make sure that your home’s electrical system can handle it. You’ll invite a slew of problems into your home if ignore this part, such as flickering lights, power surges, and frequent tripping.
Heat pumps are all-electrical devices that will be running most months out of the year, through the worst of both summer and winter. Ensuring that the electrical panel is compatible with this system will ensure that your new investment fulfills its 15-year life expectancy.
Is It Compatible With My Ducts?
There are two ways to answer this question, and it depends on whether the heat pump is ducted or ductless.
Ductless: These are the air handlers that are affixed to the walls. They don’t need ducts because they directly blast air into the room that they’re installed in. There’s no harm in using a ductless system if you already have ducts.
Ducted: Heat pumps can also be installed with ducts like a normal central AC or furnace. If your aim is to cut the cost of installation, you can use your existing ductwork with a new heat pump. However, keep in mind that there are several benefits to going with ductless heating in Lacey, WA. Efficiency, air quality, and greater control over the temperature are just a few reasons.