Heat pumps can help you minimize your environmental footprint.
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Homeowners looking for an energy-efficient solution to to traditional furnaces and air conditioners may be interested in a heat pump -- a type of heating and cooling system that can help you save money while also minimizing your environmental footprint amid the climate crisis. Heat pumps don't burn fossil fuels, and for those living in milder areas, they may be a great solution for your heating and cooling needs. Here's everything you should know about how heat pumps work, the different kinds of heat pumps available and where to buy them, and how to service these energy-saving machines.
How do heat pumps work?
A heat pump is a type of home heating and cooling system that uses resources like water and air to regulate the temperature. It's like an air conditioner, but it has a built-in heating system, too. Heat pumps are installed outside your home.
Using electricity and refrigerant, a heat pump is able to turn cold air into hot air during the winter, and hot air into cold air during the summer. It does this by redistributing the heat in the air or ground, and heating it or cooling it with refrigerant as needed.
The standard heat pump has several parts:
Outdoor unit: Equipped with a coil that powers evaporation in heating mode and condensation in cooling mode.
Indoor unit: Includes both a coil and fan to circulate air throughout your home.
Refrigerant: A type of fluid needed to absorb and release heat as necessary to keep the system running.
Compressor: A pressurizing agent to prepare the refrigerant for use.
Reversing valve: Controls the direction of the refrigerant in your system, allowing you to switch between heating and cooling modes.
Expansion valve: Controls the movement of refrigerant in the heat pump.
Ground source systems are a more expensive option to buy upfront, but have significant savings in energy costs long term.
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Where to buy a heat pump
You can buy a heat pump from a major retailer or through a professional installer.
Heat pumps are available from retailers like these:
Home Depot
Lowe's
Walmart
Sears
Tractor Supply
Pricing may vary, so it is always a good idea to shop multiple retailers to find the best deal for your new heat pump.
How to install a heat pump
Once you purchase your new heat pump, it comes time for installation. A heat pump comes with several parts that require exact precision during installation. Handling refrigerant can also be unsafe for the average homeowner.
Don't worry -- you have several options for professional installation. Most retailers offer installation for your purchase at an additional cost, although this may be contracted out to a third-party provider.
You also have the option to hire an independent installation company. If you choose to hire someone for installation, be sure to find a licensed professional for the job. You can find a local installer by checking local ratings and reading reviews from past customers on sites like Google and Yelp.
How to maintain a heat pump
Although energy-efficient, heat pumps still require maintenance to ensure proper function. Here are some basic ways to maintain your heat pump for extended use:
Clean filters regularly, changing as needed.
Occasionally clean outdoor coils.
Perform basic maintenance, according to your manufacturer's instructions.
Remove items from around your system so it can function properly.
Power down the fan to clean as needed.
Many professional HVAC companies offer one-time or regular maintenance packages to assist with your heat pump.
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