Heat pumps can do the job of both central air conditioning systems and furnaces, keeping interiors cool during summer and warm once winter arrives. Most systems typically include an indoor air handler and outdoor unit. During colder weather, the equipment sources heat from outside air, which makes it best suited to meet the demands of living in climates with mild winters. To better care for the appliance, below is a guide to how heat pumps work.  

How Heat Pumps Function

Heat pumps circulate refrigerant through compressor valves and coils that extract heat from the outside air. The hot air then passes through evaporator coils, where a fan blows it through ducts and into the home to heat interiors. During summer, a heat pump can reverse direction and absorb the heat from inside and release it outside the building. Ground-source devices extract the heat from the earth, which maintains an internal temperature between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The air is transferred from the ground into a building through pipes filled with refrigerant to absorb the heat. 

Why Use a Heat Pump?

Installing a heat pump could cut down on energy consumption by 30 to 60 percent, which will save money on heating and cooling your space. Heat is sourced for outside, which means the appliance doesn’t require as much electricity to convert the air to the desired temperature like with similar heating and air units. Heat pumps also act as dehumidifiers to help control moisture levels in your space. This will help prevent harmful allergens, such as mold and mildew, from forming inside your home and making the family sick.

If you want to install a heat pump to keep your space comfortable during Alabama’s heatwaves and cold spells, reach out to the cooling and heating contractors at Walker Electric in Andalusia for assistance. From installation to routine maintenance, the licensed, bonded, and insured technicians and installers are committed to providing solutions to ensure your equipment is as efficient as possible. They will also provide seasonal maintenance tips to cut down on energy costs. To schedule a service appointment, call (334) 222-2481. Visit the company online for special offers, and stay in touch on Facebook for announcements.