It can be difficult for homeowners to choose from all the different types of HVAC systems. However, heat pumps are becoming more popular, especially in states that need heating and cooling.

In this article, we’ll go over how heat pumps work in summer and winter and the different types of heat pumps.

How Heat Pumps Work

Heat pumps can provide heating and cooling, making them a convenient HVAC option for homeowners. They are powered by electricity rather than oil or gas and can extract outdoor air or thermal energy from the ground.

Heat Pumps in the Summer

In the summer, heat pumps use a coil and fan to pull the warm air out of your home and outdoors. Heat pumps will cool down your home quickly and will also use refrigerant to absorb heat and cool the air, similar to a central AC unit. Then, the cooled air travels back through your ductwork into your living space.

Heat Pumps in the Winter

Heat pumps reverse this mechanism in the winter. Instead of pulling warm air out of your home, they pull in warmth from outside.

Once again, the pressurized refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air, and then it raises its temperature before being pushed back into your home. However, heat pumps work best in climates that don’t get below freezing.

Geothermal vs. Air Source Heat Pumps

You can choose between a geothermal heat pump or an air-source heat pump. Both are energy-efficient, durable, and long-lasting, but they use unique technology to heat or cool your home’s air.

Ground Source Heat Pumps

Since heat pumps transfer heat from outdoors, rather than generate their own heat, they need a reliable source of heat to draw from. The ground beneath the frost line maintains a consistent temperature, even when it’s cold outside.

Heat pumps transfer the heat from deep in the Earth into your home. This is an eco-friendly heating option that can achieve low monthly energy costs. However, they can be difficult and expensive to install upfront.

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps work exactly how you’d guess — by pulling heat from the air. The fan collects the air and pushes it over the coil to transfer the heat.

Even in cold climates, heat energy in the ambient air can be utilized to warm your home. Air source heat pumps don’t require special permits, are less expensive to install, and are extremely energy-efficient.

Choose Preferred Home Services for Your Heat Pump Needs in Greenville, SC

If you’re interested in heat pump installation services, you need to hire a skilled HVAC contractor to ensure it’s set up properly. That’s where we come in. Preferred Home Services is the top HVAC company serving homeowners in the Charleston, SC, area.

We’re committed to our clients’ complete comfort. You can count on us for all of your heat pump installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance needs.

To book your heat pump services in the Greenville area, call (864) 206-5620 today.