Brrr! Winter weather is here! All around the Sarasota area heating systems are kicking in for the first time in months. This is a good time as any to explore heating options. Is that old furnace really the best way to warm your home or is time to invest in heat pump? Modern Air & Refrigeration is here to help. We have put together a handy guide for you on the pros and cons of a heat pump complete with an offer to help you manage costs for our budget wise homeowners.
What is a Heat Pump?
Let’s begin our heating and air journey with a definition of a heat pump. A modern-day heat pump serves two functions as part of a heating and cooling system. It can act to both heat and cool a home depending on the needs of an AC system. A typical installation consists of two parts: an indoor unit usually referred to as an air handler and an outdoor unit usually called a heat pump. A compressor between these two pieces regulates temperature by absorbing or releasing heat as necessary.
Cons of a Heat Pump
Let’s start with why a heat pump might not be the solution for your heating needs. First heat pumps are not ideal for climates where the temperature regularly falls near or below freezing. This is due to a heat pump’s mode of operation. Heating freezing air to hot air takes a lot of energy for your heat pump and therefore has a noticeable effect on your electric bill. This is also why a heat pump’s heated air is often described by past furnace users as “not as warm”. The next drawback to a heat pump is size. Since a heat pump typically has an indoor and outdoor component it requires more space inside and outside.
Pros of a Heat Pump
The benefits of having an HVAC unit that uses a heat pump are numerous. There is a reason why they are the preferred method for heating homes in recent times. Heat pumps are more energy efficient drawing their source from electricity rather than gas from their older furnace counterparts. They cost less to install and operate quieter than furnaces. Since they use electricity they eliminate the old risk of carbon monoxide poisoning as well. Overall cost per cost a heat pump is the recommended way to heat and cool your home.
Read to upgrade your HVAC needs with a heat pump? Reach out to Modern Air & Refrigeration your local Sarasota HVAC specialists 24/7 at (941) 727-0330 or send us a quick message. We have financing deals available to help with costs.