HVAC Heat Pumps

HEAT PUMP BASICS

If your home is like most in Florida than the type of HVAC system you have is called a heat pump.  You may be wondering what the system is called a heat pump when we rarely use heat.  Read on to understand the basics of a heat pump. 

WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP?

First, a heat pump is installed in different parts. The first is the air handler which is installed indoors. The outdoor unit is similar to a central air conditioner unit however it is called a heat pump. There is a compressor that circulates refrigerant and absorbs and releases heat as it travels between the indoor and outdoor units.  The heat pump has a compressor that can be reversed in order to create heat or cold air in your home depending on your needs. 

HOW DOES A HEAT PUMP WORK?

A heat pump basically moves warm air from one place to another depending on when it is needed, where it is needed and what season it is. When it is cold outside the heat pump extracts the heat from the air outside and transports it into your home.  Even though it is cold, there are still warm air particles.   When it's warm out, the direction is reversed and the heat pump acts like an air conditioner, removing heat from your home.

Advantages

A main advantage of a heat pump is energy efficiency because it is powered by electricity you will save on fuel consumption heat pumps are among the most efficient ways to heat or cool your home.  Heat pumps are mostly suited for warmer or moderate climates.  Because they move heat around rather than produce heat.

Operating tips

·         Don't turn the thermostat so that the backup heating needs to come on, this is electric heat and will cost you more to run

·         Running your fan constantly will degrade the performance of the heat pump unless you have a high-efficiency fan motor

·         You should run your system on the auto setting for the fan on the thermostat

·         A programmable thermostat works best with a heat pump to create the utmost efficiency

·         Clean or change filters once a month or as needed

Floridians tend to take their air conditioning for granted unless something happens to it.  Now that you know the ins and outs of your heat pump system, you are on the right track to enjoying comfortable air temps inside of your home year round.  When you need maintenance, have any issues or questions on your heat pump call the HVAC specialists at Morgan Air.   813-500-7765