3 Benefits of Heat Pumps

The name “heat pump” can be a confusing word, especially when it comes to air conditioning. Heat pumps have been around since the 1940s, but it’s only been over the last 10 years that they’ve become a popular choice for property owners. How can a heat pump benefit you and your air conditioning? There are several reasons why a heat pump is a good choice for air conditioning in Austin, TX, but it’s important to know how it works.

How a Heat Pump Works

Heat pumps are electrical devices that transfer (move) heat from one location to another, so they can provide both heating and cooling. During the winter, heat pumps move heat from the cool outdoors into your home, and, during summer, they move heat from inside your home into the outdoors. Heat pumps can provide heating and cooling with or without ductwork, making them an option for many different households.

Benefits of Using a Heat Pump

There are a number of benefits when using a heat pump for your cooling:

  • Energy efficiency – there are a couple of ways heat pumps can be very energy efficient: first, they use 25-50% less electricity to operate than traditional air conditioners (and furnaces). Second, they do not use fossil fuel to operate, eliminating the need for oil or natural gas.
  • Longevity – the average lifespan of an air conditioning system is 10-12 years, while the average lifespan of a heat pump is 20-25.
  • Comfort – heat pumps cool uniformly, helping to reduce and eliminate hot and cold spots. Additionally, the humidity level stays fairly constant because there is no forced air component.

Geography Can Make a Difference

Heat pumps tend to work best in geographical areas that don’t have winter temperatures less than 40 degrees. If you do live in an area where it gets cold during the winter, you can still use a heat pump but you may need to use it in conjunction with a second heat source.

The best way to decide if a heat pump is a good option for your air conditioning is to work with an HVAC expert, so call Intelligent Air Services today and schedule an air conditioning service in Austin, TX.