Are you still using a separate air conditioner and furnace to cool and heat your home? You could save thousands of dollars a year on your energy bills by installing a device that does both! A heat pump can remove heat from the air when needed, as well as turn warm air into cool air by just flipping a switch (and it’s not magic). Here we’ll go more into depth about what a heat pump does and why you need one for your home.

What Is A Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a combined heating and cooling system. Its design extracts heat from one area and consistently moves it throughout the home. In the summer, it works by absorbing heat from the inside of your home and moving it back outside to essentially cool the interior of your home. During cold winter weather, the heat pump extracts some of the heat energy from the air outside and uses it to circulate warm air throughout your home. Although it sounds similar to that of a furnace and air conditioner, it works to move heat rather than create it, which makes it an excellent energy efficient option.

How Does It Work?

Heat pumps work by circulating a refrigerant through a cycle of evaporation and condensation to transfer heat throughout your home. By way of a compressor pump, the device pumps refrigerant between two heat exchange coils. The first coil is designed to absorb heat from its surroundings and evaporates the refrigerant at low pressure. As it passed to the second coil, the refrigerant then compresses at a high-pressure level. Once it crosses the second coil, it then condenses and releases any heat that is absorbed.

Can It Be Used In All Homes?

Absolutely! The most commonly used type of heat pump in Canada is known as an air-source heat pump. This model can absorb the heat directly from the outdoor air even in winter, and then pushes the heat outdoors in the summer. Another type of heat pump that is often found in Canada is a ground-source model that is also known as a geothermal heat pump. These units work by drawing heat from the ground or a surrounding groundwater source to heat and cool the home. Comparison wise, they are more expensive to install but are more energy efficient and can offer lower utility costs. To determine which type is best for your location and home type, it’s best to consult with a professional HVAC technician.

Where Does It Work Best?

They work in all climates, including those that drop below freezing but shouldn’t be used in locations that see extreme low temps below -20C on a regular basis. If you live in an area where the weather dips well below -20°C in the winter frequently, it’s best to combine your heat pump with a furnace to create a more powerful and comfortable solution.  

Are you looking for a heat pump for your home? Look no further than Atmosphere Climate Control Specialists.  We sell high-quality heating and air conditioning products, and we can also repair, maintain and clean your heat pumps for optimal use. Whether you need ductless heat pumps or ducted heat pumps, we offer the best products on the market so that you can enjoy years of trouble-free service and energy savings! Learn more about what we have to offer today by visiting our website and when ready to proceed; you can set up an appointment with us directly online.