If you're looking at HVAC options for your home, consider a heat pump. This modern technology includes air-to-air, water source, and geothermal heat pumps, all of which are versatile and budget-friendly options for keeping your home at a comfortable temperature year-round. Below is more information to help you decide if they're right for your home.

Common Questions About Heat Pumps Answered

How does a heat pump work?

Heat pumps rely on some of the basic scientific properties of heat. When a fluid is forced into a smaller space, its temperature rises, and when it's allowed to expand, it cools. A heat pump compresses a fluid to warm it until it's hotter than the surrounding area, so it radiates heat. Then, the same fluid is circulated to another area and allowed to decompress, so it gets colder and starts to absorb heat from its surroundings. Circulating the fluid over and over again allows the system to move heat against the direction it would usually travel, keeping an area warm in winter and cold in the summer.

How is it different from air conditioning?

An air conditioner uses the same principles to pump heat outside your home. However, an AC only works in one direction. A heat pump has different settings to either warm or cool your home, depending on what you need.

Will it work in cold areas?

There is a limit to how cold it can be outside before the system stops working efficiently. Below about 5 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll need a second heat source to keep your home comfortable. But it can still supply most of your heating and cooling needs throughout the year. 

Why choose a heat pump?

It’s an eco-friendly option compared to furnaces because of the reduced emissions. As such, you can sometimes get tax rebates or subsidies for installing them. They're also less expensive to operate than most other HVAC solutions because they don't have to generate heat, just compress and decompress fluid. Many systems don't require air ducts, cutting down on installation and maintenance costs.

If you're considering a heat pump for your home, contact Duncklee Cooling & Heating, Inc. in Stonington, CT. Serving New London County in Connecticut and Washington County in Rhode Island for 44 years, they offer reliable, environmentally conscious equipment and service. Call (860) 535-2552 to schedule an appointment or browse their services online.