Heat pumps are a highly efficient way to heat and cool your home, but there are still some misconceptions about them. Here are six heat pump myths and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: Heat Pumps Are Only for Heating
Heat pumps can do both heating and cooling, so don’t let the name fool you. Thanks to a reversing valve, in the winter, they work by transferring heat into your home, and during the warm months, they do the opposite by releasing the heat from your home and moving it outside.
A heat pump uses a lot less energy to run than a furnace. You’ll also save because you don’t have to buy a separate furnace and air conditioner.
Myth 2: Heat Pumps Are Expensive to Operate
It’s often thought that heat pumps are more expensive to operate than other heating and cooling systems, but this isn’t always the case. Heat pumps could save you money on your energy bills.
While the initial cost of a heat pump may be higher than a furnace or air conditioner, the long-term costs are lower. Heat pumps are more efficient than other systems and can last many years with proper maintenance from qualified professionals. However, just like any heating and cooling system, heat pumps need routine maintenance and proper upkeep.
Myth 3: Heat Pumps Are Too Loud
Modern heat pumps are much quieter than their earlier versions. The only time you may hear a noise from a heat pump is when it’s first turned on because the compressor and fan are starting up. Once the heat pump is running, you shouldn’t hear any noise.
If you hear noise from your heat pump, it may be a sign that something is wrong. Check the area around the heat pump for any objects that are vibrating and causing the noise. Contact a professional to help diagnose the problem if you can’t find anything.
Myth 4: Heat Pumps Don’t Work in Cold Weather
Most people think that heat pumps don’t work well in cold weather. However, heat pumps work in all types of weather.
While it’s true that heat pumps may not be as efficient in very cold weather, they can still provide enough heat for your home. Most heat pumps now contain a heat strip to provide heat when temperatures dip below freezing. When temperatures are above freezing, a reversing valve in the heat pump can still move warm air inside the home and cool air out. Many may find that their heat pump works better than a furnace in the winter.
Myth 5: Heat Pumps Have to Constantly Stay On
The current heat pumps available on the market have high heat outputs due to increased efficiency. You may think it needs to constantly stay on to maintain comfortable temperatures in your home, but this isn’t the case. You can turn it on and off as needed to ensure your home is always at the temperature you desire.
The main difference is the speed at which the heat pump will operate. Older models take longer to heat up or cool down your home, so they run for longer periods. Increased efficiency in modern ones makes them work faster and cycle on less.
Myth 6: You Can’t Install Heat Pumps in Current Buildings
Heat pumps can be installed in new and existing buildings of varying ages, which may come as a surprise to those who think that old buildings are off limits. Have one of our professionals assess your property regardless of its age to see if it can support a heat pump system.
It’s important to note that new buildings can easily have heat pump systems installed as all the ductwork and electrical wiring is in place. Older buildings may need some modifications to install the system.
As you weigh your options for heating and cooling your home, consider a heat pump. Contact Lunsford Air Conditioning & Heating to get professional heating installation. Our team will help you choose and install the best heat pump for your home.
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