Heat Pump FAQs
Most homes in the country are heated with traditional centralized furnace heaters. They have been around the longest and have provided consistent indoor heating for decades. Still, for some time now, new technology in indoor heating has been developing and experiencing a resurgence in popularity as more homeowners look for cost-saving heating measures without sacrificing quality – this technology is the heat pump system.
Heat pumps have been around since the 1850s and were used to heat homes around the 1960s. Still, this technology has gained much traction for domestic use because of a renewed interest in environmentally friendly heating options. In this regard, heat pumps deliver a lot of bang for the buck. Not only do heat pumps use up less energy compared to gas furnaces, but they also lower carbon emissions by up to 75%. But how do heat pumps achieve this eco-friendly, energy-saving feat?
What Is a Heat Pump, Exactly?
Instead of generating heat, a heat pump transfers heat from one place to another. In the summer, it uses this concept to cool indoor air by moving heat outside, while it does the opposite in the winter to keep homes warm and comfortable. While there may be different kinds of heat pumps similar to the different types of furnaces, there are only two sources from which heat pumps gather heat: from the ground or the air. Either way, ground-source or air-source heat pumps can be installed at home as a ducted heat pump, a ductless heat pump, or a mini split heat pump.
Advantages of Heat Pump Installation
To understand why heat pumps are becoming so popular lately, one need not look further than the benefits homeowners can enjoy when opting for heat pump installation.
- Energy bill savings - A heat pump allows homeowners to save on utility bills. Being more energy efficient than gas or electric heaters allows it to lower energy consumption and energy costs.
- Better safety ratings - Without fuel storage or delivery systems typical of gas furnaces, heat pumps are safer to operate at home.
- Lower carbon emissions - Heat pumps are known to lower carbon emissions by as much as 75%, with the most emission reductions possible when a home gets its electricity from clean sources such as wind, solar, or geothermal energy.
- Can heat or cool - Heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling, allowing homeowners to repurpose their heat pumps as the seasons change.
How To Tell When Your Heat Pump System Is In Need of Repair
While heat pumps are meant to last as long as a decade or two, which is about the same lifespan as a traditional gas furnace, they do and will break down occasionally. The trick is to catch these problems early and repair the heat pump as soon as possible so that these problems do not blow out of proportion.
Homeowners who notice that their heat pumps have a malfunctioning or broken motor, thermostat, or starter capacity should get their systems checked. Timely maintenance to prevent frozen heat pump coils, low levels of refrigerant, and mechanical issues will also go a long way to keep heat pumps in great condition and running smoothly throughout the winter season.
About City Plumbing
City Plumbing is a reliable plumbing services provider in Philadelphia and its surrounding neighborhoods. Their flat-rate pricing, 24/7 service availability, and true satisfaction guarantee all speak to their dedication to providing the best service to the people in their community. They have a team of trusted technicians equipped with fully stocked trucks and use the latest technology to ensure that they provide the right solutions on the first try. Call them today for heating service in Philadelphia, PA.
