Every day, more people are learning about the difference between traditional heat furnaces and heat pumps and making the switch. When you finish this post, you might be tempted to switch to heat pumps too, and when it's time, Universal Refrigeration in Auburn, WA, will be glad to help! They've been providing a wide variety of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration services to area residents since 1985. 

Here, these heating and cooling experts will explain the difference between furnaces and heat pumps and will help you decide if you should make the change:

• The Fundamental Difference: Traditional heat furnaces work by generating heat and distributing it through the air, such as through convection (forced air) or radiant heat. Heat pumps, on the other hand, do not generate heat; instead, they distribute already-existing heat using a refrigerant. Because they do not generate heat, a heat pump can be up to 40% more efficient than your furnace.

• Heat Pumps Work Both Ways: Regular furnaces are useful only for heating. Heat pumps, on the other hand, can heat and cool your home! That's because of the way they work: By distributing already-existing heat, heat pumps and chillers can cool your home in the summer by absorbing excess heat and dumping it outside, and they can also warm it in the winter by moving underground heat into your home.
• Should You Buy A Heat Pump? Since temperatures around Puget Sound aren't usually extreme, heat pumps are a wise investment for many households. However, they work best in well-insulated buildings with no drafts, so make sure your home is prepared first. The ground temperature is surprisingly warm and constant (depending on your location) and is an efficient heat source in buildings that retain heat well.

Need help deciding if your home would benefit more from a furnace or a heat pump? Interested in installing a new heating or air conditioning system in your home? Universal Refrigeration offers the most reliable air conditioning and heating repair and installation services in Auburn. Give them a call at (253) 939-5501, or visit their website to learn more.