If you’re in the market for heating and air conditioner system; then you’ve inevitably come across comparisons of heat pumps and air conditioners. Both these systems offer distinct benefits to homeowners. This might make it difficult to choose the best HVAC system for you. We’ve put together some basic information about each of these systems and what their main similarities and differences are.
Heat Pump Systems and Air Conditioner Systems: The Basics
Functioning much like refrigerators, air conditioning systems absorb heat from air that passes over their coils and the leftover cool air is distributed throughout your home. The warm air is then removed from your home through external condenser coils.
Heat pumps not only provide the cooling function of an air conditioner, but these systems can extract warm air from outside to heat up your house during the short winter months.
Heat Pump vs Air Conditioning System: Similarities
If your only concern is cooling off your home, then either one of these will do the trick. Both these units essentially function the same when in cooling mode. They extract warm air as it passes over the coils and move it outside.
Heat Pump vs AC: Differences
There are several ways where heat pumps and air conditioners differ, and this will be the main area you want to focus on when choosing the best system for your home. The main difference between these two units is that a heat pump can function as an air conditioner and a heater, whereas an air conditioner has only one primary function.
For heating and cooling purposes, heat pumps are more energy and cost efficient than operating an air conditioner during the summer and a furnace during the winter. In addition, heat pumps don’t burn fossil fuels and are usually smaller than their counterparts. This money and energy savings will come at a cost, as these units are more expensive than traditional air conditioners.
How to Choose the Best HVAC System for Your Home in Southeastern USA
Contact an HVAC professional you can trust; they can look over your home, discuss your options in more detail, and help you make the best decision for your home and your pocketbook.
