WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP?

A heat pump is an all-in-one heating and air conditioning system that works year-round to keep you comfortable and are popular in warmer states like our native Florida. Similar to an air conditioner, it can cool your home; however, it is also capable of providing heat. The term “heat pump” can refer to many different types of equipment but is commonly used to refer to a specific type of system in which the flow of heat transfer can be reversed. Several components are involved in a heat pump system, including an air handler (to distribute the heated or cooled air), evaporator, and condenser.

HOW DOES A HEAT PUMP WORK?

That reversing of heat flow is key to how a heat pump system works. In cooler months, the reversing valve kicks in, changing the flow of refrigerant to transfer warmer air into the home. In warmer months, it operates in a similar fashion to the classic air conditioner-type system you may be familiar with.

While they do use refrigerant, heat pumps do not provide heat through natural gas or other sources — this can contribute to their efficiency, cost-savings, and environmental-friendliness!

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS TO A HEAT PUMP?

Compared to a traditional furnace and air conditioner setup, a heat pump can save you hundreds of dollars every year or more, depending on many factors including your location. They don’t use natural gas or produce carbon monoxide. In addition, they won’t create dryness in the home like a gas furnace typically would.

IS A HEAT PUMP RIGHT FOR MY HOME?

If the temperature outside in the area you live stays above 32 degrees, or winters are milder and shorter, a heat pump can be a beneficial investment. They’re a great fit for homes in Southern or Southwestern states, where the winter months are mild. They are quite popular with our customers in Southwest Florida!

WHEN DOES MY HEAT PUMP NEED REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT?

Heat pumps are electrically powered devices that should be replaced every 10 to 15 years, but may need replacement earlier if they are running inefficiently or are becoming too costly to keep running. Here are a few signs that your heat pump is not working properly and might need a new replacement:

Unusual noises from your heat pump

When you’re hearing strange noises from your heat pump HVAC system, that is usually a sign that the components and parts are starting to break down due to age, friction, or other problems. This can cause all sorts of issues ranging from a temporary annoyance… to a total and costly system failure.

Your Florida energy bill is going up

A properly functioning heat pump should result in steady energy consumption. If your energy bill seems like it’s always going up, this might be a sign that your heat pump is not working at its full potential or efficiency.

It’s over 10 years old or needs constant repair to stay running

If your heat pump is over 10 years old — or if you’re throwing money away on too many repair calls — it’s time for a new heat pump system installation! While a repair might be more cost-friendly in the moment and our professional technicians are always happy to get your system running again, it could be costing you much more in the long run. This goes for both time and money!

How do I get a new heat pump installed?

Our local technicians will investigate your system and discuss the best options with you, including whether a new heat pump will be beneficial for both your comfort and your budget. AA Temperature Services also offers flexible financing options (including 0%) that can help a new system fit within your budget, allowing you to save money over time as well. You can discuss the available options with your technician.