Blog

4 Ways Heat Pumps Can Maximize Your Home’s Efficiency & Comfort

4 Ways Heat Pumps Can Maximize Your Home's Efficiency & Comfort

Homeowners are always looking for ways to increase the efficiency and comfort of their home. When it comes to heating and cooling, heat pumps provide numerous benefits that help maximize your home’s comfort while keeping things running smoothly.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

In simple terms, the standard air heat pump works by pulling heat from one source and transferring it to a new location. Heat pumps do this through two heat exchangers. One heat exchanger produces a refrigerant that evaporates and absorbs the heat in the air. The other exchanger (coil) transfers the heated air to the room or area.

While heat pumps are a highly-efficient heating option, they do require a larger upfront investment. Additionally, in certain climates, they require a supplemental heat source.

4 Benefits of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps provide several benefits, including the following.

1. Energy-efficiency

As already mentioned, heat pumps are energy-efficient because they are only moving heat from one place to another, not producing heat.

2. Lower utility bill

Energy-efficiency means more bang for your buck. Although the upfront cost is higher for a heat pump, it will lower your monthly utility bill.

3. Efficient heating and cooling

Heat pumps are efficient, so you don’t have to worry about them doing a poor job of heating and cooling your home.

4. Improved indoor air quality

Energy-efficiency also means better indoor air quality. Good indoor air quality reduces your in-home health risks.

What Are the Different Types of Heat Pump?

Although they each accomplish the same basic task, there are several types of heat pump. Take a look at each one to determine which is right for you.

Ductless, Mini-Split Heat Pumps

Ductless heat pumps are for homes without, well, ducts. They are small, individual heat pumps great for zoning single rooms or home additions.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Geothermal heat pumps pull their heat from nearby ground or water, rather than the air. They are even more energy-efficient than standard heat pumps; however, the installation cost is again higher.

Absorption Heat Pumps

Absorption heat pumps are sourced by natural gas, propane, or water. Typically, absorption heat pumps are located in industrial settings or buildings.

What to Look For in a Heat Pump

There are two primary ratings you should look for when considering a heat pump.

1. The Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF)

The HSPF rating on a heat pump evaluates the relationship between energy use and heat output. In a few words, it rates a pump’s heating efficiency. Typically, efficient heat pumps rate between 8-10.

2. Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)

The SEER rating evaluates cooling efficiency. It compares energy use and heat removal.

Both ratings are important and should be carefully considered based on your home’s size, location, climate, layout, etc.

Your heat source plays a large role in your home’s indoor air quality, so it is important that you take the time to properly choose and maintain it.

If you have any further questions, contact Indoor Air Quality today. We serve homeowners in Highlands Ranch and throughout the Denver Metro Area. Our highest priority is the comfort of your home.