Homeowners have a lot of options in terms of heating. That is why it can be tricky to determine the right one for you. If you want to invest in an affordable and efficient heating system, a heat pump might be best for you. Unlike furnaces and boilers, a heat pump system doesn’t create heat. Rather, it transfers heat from one area to another. Since the system does not create heat, it uses less energy than furnaces and boilers do, making it a cost-effective option.
Apart from heating, heat pump systems also cool homes by moving heat out of the house to lower indoor temperatures. Some people use heat pumps as a combination heating and cooling system. But, others use them as an addition to traditional heating and cooling equipment. If you are buying a heat pump, think about DIY heat pump installation with professional help to get the job done right the first time.
Kinds of Heat Pumps
There are different types of heat pumps you can find in the market including the following:
- Air-source systems. These heat pumps absorb warmth from outdoor air and transfer it inside your house. To cool your house, these pumps draw the heat out of your house.
- Geothermal systems. These heat pumps use underground heat as a source of energy. This system of fluid-filled piping absorbs below-ground heat and transfers it up to the heat pump of your house, where it can be moved indoors to heat your home. But, these systems may also pull heat energy from a nearby water source that has consistent temperature like a pond or lake. To cool your house, they draw heat from inside and transfer it into the groundwater source.
Things to Keep in Mind when Buying a Heat Pump
Before you buy a heat pump, consider your climate. An air-source heat pump runs efficiently only when outdoor temperatures are above freezing. Thus, if you are in a region where the temperature is below 32 degrees, you must not pick a heat pump as your only heating source. A geothermal heat pump is also an alternative in areas with freezing winters.
Moreover, ductwork is another important consideration. When you switch to a geothermal or air-source pump from a traditional forced-air system, you may reuse the existing ductwork in your home if it is still in good working order. A ductless mini-split heat pump system enables the use of a heat pump without ductwork. Other things to consider when buying a heat pump include pricing and natural gas lines.
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