Choosing the Right Heat Pump
So, you have eliminated the other HVAC options and decided to choose a heat pump. Congratulations, you've made a great choice! You have jumped over the first big hurdle of navigating the varying heating and cooling systems, and that's no small feat. But now you're tasked with finding the perfect heat pump system for your home or business and need help sorting through them all. It's completely normal to find the task daunting, but when you know what to look for, the process can become a whole lot easier.
There are important considerations to factor in when choosing a new heat pump:
Understand how different types of heat pumps operate
Evaluate whether it is a viable option for your location
Acknowledge the pros and cons of each system
Do different types of heat pumps work differently?
The primary types of heat pumps are air-source and geothermal. Despite their differences, all heat pumps operate on the principle of heat exchange, wherein they absorb heat from a source and distribute it where needed.
Traditional HVAC systems use fossil fuel energy to produce heat. Heat pumps work by pulling heat from the air outside (or the ground if it is a geothermal heat pump system), circulating refrigerant between the outdoor compressor and an indoor air unit, then distributing it inside. Conversely, if you want to cool your home, this process can be reversed, sending heat outside of your home and providing you with cool air.
Because the heat is being redistributed, and not produced, it allows heat pumps to absorb three to four (or sometimes more) times more heat than traditional systems can produce with the same amount of energy (in the form of electricity). Heat pump systems can absorb heat using heat absorption fluid, usually a refrigerant. Substances like refrigerants are unique in that they're able to absorb heat even in the coldest temperatures (our customers love their heat pumps here in Massachusetts).
All heat pumps work by using the same basic principle, but not all heat pumps work the same.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Air-source heat pumps absorb heat from the air. In the winter, they can absorb heat from outdoors, regardless of the outdoor temperature, and bring it indoors. Not all systems heat and cool, but those that do cool by reversing the process. When in cooling mode, heat pumps extract the heat from indoors and spread cool air throughout the building. An air source heat pump does this by using the refrigeration cycle.
The refrigeration cycle begins with evaporation, which occurs inside during cooling and outside during heating. When the thermostat is adjusted, the heat pump is activated, sending the refrigerant to absorb heat from the indoor or outdoor air. After absorbing heat, the refrigerant passes through the evaporator coil, transforming from a liquid to a gas. The heat pump can disperse cool air throughout the home in cooling mode. The refrigerant, now in a gaseous state, undergoes compression. Compression reduces its volume, elevating both boiling temperature and pressure. In heating mode, the boiling temperature must reach the desired indoor temperature. The pressurized gas then moves to the condenser coil, where heat exchange occurs, causing the refrigerant to shift from a gas to a liquid. In this condensation phase, heat is either released into the building (during heating) or expelled outdoors (during cooling) with the assistance of a fan. Post-release of heat, the refrigerant needs further cooling. It must move through the expansion valve, lowering the refrigerant pressure and reducing its temperature. Once the refrigerant reaches the optimal temperature, it's prepared to repeat the refrigeration cycle when needed. Depending on the system, it can pump hot or cool air throughout the home using ductwork or ductless indoor air handlers.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Geothermal heat pumps use the consistent temperature beneath the Earth's surface. They transfer heat to or from the ground, depending on whether the system is being used for heating or cooling.
Geothermal heat pumps have a loop system buried underground that is either closed or open. In a closed-loop system, a mixture of water and antifreeze absorbs or releases heat from the ground. In an open-loop system, groundwater from a well flows into the heat pump system, and after heat exchange, it returns to the ground or a surface water source. The heat is absorbed by a different substance, water or antifreeze, but it moves through the same refrigeration cycle as the air source heat pump.
Unique Pros and Cons of Heat Pump Types
Air Source Heat Pumps
Pros:
· Available for both ducted and ductless setups
· Installation is cost-effective and fast
· Many states have rebates available
Cons:
· Higher upfront cost compared to some systems
· Efficiency may decrease during extreme temperature fluctuations
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Pros:
· Performance is extremely consistent
· Highest energy efficiency among HVAC systems
· Long lifespan ranging from 25 to 50 years
Cons:
· Installation is time-consuming and requires significant investment
· Unsuitable for certain geographical areas lacking appropriate ground loop conditions
What to Look for in a Heat Pump
With an understanding of your preferred heat pump type, consider the following priorities when selecting a specific system.
Efficiency and Reduced Energy Bills
Look for Energy Star Certified heat pumps or high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) ratings.
2. Enhanced Comfort
Look for variable-speed compressors, smart thermostats, and zoning capabilities to customize your comfort.
3. Budget
While considering upfront costs, balance your budgetary constraints with long-term energy savings and performance benefits.
Remember, proper sizing is crucial for a heat pump to work efficiently, keep your energy bills low, operate without breakdowns, and last its expected lifespan. Before making any final decisions about what heat pump to use in your home, consult a certified and experienced HVAC technician. You have the knowledge you need now to ask informed questions, so never hesitate to ensure the job's done right. Good luck!
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
Whether you need 24-7 emergency service or a solution to improve your indoor comfort—at home and work—call us at 781-224-2400 or submit a convenient contact form.