Heat pumps are an effective and efficient way to warm your home during the moderate winters in Arizona. They work by transferring heat, rather than burning fuel to create heat. This means that not only will a heat pump keep your family warm during the winter, but it can also direct heat away from the home in the summer. A heating system technician can help you decide if a heat pump is the right choice for your home. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about heat pumps.
How do heat pumps work?
Science says that heat energy will always move from an area of high temperatures to an area of low temperatures. Heat pumps capitalize on the physics of energy transfer. They work by using a small amount of energy to pump heat from the ground or air into your home to warm it. Some ground-source heat pumps can even transfer heat from an underground body of water, such as a well or a lake, into the home.
Do heat pumps require ductwork?
In most cases, yes: A heat pump will use the home’s existing ductwork to transfer warmth. However, there are exceptions. If your home lacks ductwork, then talk to the heating technician about installing a mini-split heat pump. This system involves an outdoor component, called the air-source heat pump, which is connected to multiple indoor units. These indoor air handlers may be installed in the wall, ceiling, or floor. They are fairly small and unobtrusive, and they only require a small hole to connect them to the outdoor component.
Are heat pumps appropriate for the climate in the Southwest?
Heat pumps are a perfect choice for homeowners in the Southwest. They work well in areas that see moderate winters, such as Arizona. Heat pumps also work more efficiently, using less energy, in regions that do not have very cold winters.
Which features should I look for in a new heat pump?
An HVAC technician can help you decide on the best choice for your home. However, you may want to look for a heat pump that features a scroll compressor. Compared to traditional compressors, scroll compressors are quieter and more energy-efficient. They also have a longer lifespan. Dual-mode compressors and motors are also a good choice, as they can reduce energy consumption by scaling up or down as demand rises and falls.
What is a good energy efficiency rating for a heat pump?
Whenever you are choosing a new heating system for your home, you should always look for an Energy Star rated product. In addition, check the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating) number. Choose a system with a SEER number of at least 14. The higher this number is, the more money you will save in energy costs. The next number to check is the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). An ideal HSPF rating is between eight and 10.
Will I need to get my heat pump serviced?
Just like any other heating system, you will need to schedule an annual maintenance visit for your heat pump. The heating technician will thoroughly inspect your heat pump in order to make sure that it is working safely and efficiently. If any repairs are needed, they can be taken care of at this time. Schedule the annual visit during the fall months, before you turn your heat pump on for the winter.
Will I need to change the filter?
The HVAC technician can change or clean your filter for you during annual maintenance. However, it is also a good idea to change your filter about once per month during the winter. If it is a particularly warm winter and you only need to run the system every once in a while, you could wait a little longer between filter changes. Each time you change the filter, you should check the fans and coils to make sure that they are clean.
How long do heat pumps last?
Heat pumps have a lifespan that is comparable to furnaces. Depending on factors such as maintenance and frequency of use, your heat pump should last between 10 and 30 years. Geothermal heat pumps, compared to air-source heat pumps, typically last the longest.
Heat pumps are one of our specialties here at American Conditioned Air. Our fully trained and qualified technicians can install, maintain, and repair your heating and cooling system at an affordable, upfront price. That’s why you can always count on us. Would you like to learn more? No problem! Our team is always happy to speak with you about the services you need. Call our office in Tucson today at (520) 623-2430.
