How a Heat Pump Cools Your Home

In San Antonio, heat pumps can be a popular option for heating and cooling your house. 

They seem almost like an air conditioner. In fact, they run in a similar fashion during warm weather. Since they have a reversing valve, they can move warmth in the opposite direction as well as add warmth to your house when temperatures drop. 

Not sure if you rely on a heat pump or an air conditioner? All you have to do is locate the model number on the outdoor unit and check it online. If it turns out you use a heat pump, or you’re considering purchasing one, learn more about how this HVAC system keeps houses comfortable. 

How Heat Pumps Run 

Heat pumps use a refrigeration system similar to an air conditioner. Most can run akin to a ductless mini-split, as they can heat and cool. Heat pumps use an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condensing coil. Refrigerant is pumped through these coils to shift warmth. The outdoor unit also uses a compressor and is encircled by metal fins that function as a heat sink to help shift warmth properly. 

Summertime Cooling 

When your heat pump is set to cooling, the refrigerant begins in the evaporator coil. Air from within the house moves over the coil, and the refrigerant removes warmth. Wetness in the air also condenses on the coil, dripping into the condensate pan below and flows away. The following cool air moves through the ductwork and back into your house. 

During this time, the refrigerant flows a compressor on its way to the outdoor coil. This compresses the refrigerant, leading it to warm up. As it moves through the condensing coil, the outside fan and metal fins help to discharge heat to the outside. The refrigerant moves back into your house, moving through an expansion valve that lowers its temperature it considerably, prepping it to start the process from the start. 

When your heat pump is replaced and maintained correctly, you’ll get efficient cooling on par with an energy-efficient air conditioner. 

Wintertime Heating 

When your heat pump is heating, the heat exchange procedure takes place the other way around. By moving in the opposing direction, refrigerant pulls heat from the outdoor air and vents it into your house to warm the inside. 

Heat pumps working in heating mode are most useful when the temperature is warmer than freezing outside. If it turns too chilly, a backup electric resistance heater starts to keep your house cozy, but your heating expenses increase as a result. 

Heat pumps work longer than furnaces as the air doesn’t turn as warm. This helps keep a more balanced indoor temperature. Additionally, because heat pumps move warmth rather than creating it from a fuel source, they can operate well above 100% efficiency. You should expect 30–40% savings on your heating costs by installing a heat pump. 

Request Heat Pump Installation or Service Today 

Heat pumps are a green choice and economical. They are an alternative to the regular AC/furnace system and require the same amount of maintenance—one service in the spring and another in the fall. 

If you’re interested in installing a heat pump, Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air is the company to contact. We’ll size and install your system to fit your heating and cooling demands. And then we’ll support our installation with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year. To find out more, contact us at 210-404-4233 now. 

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