Heat pumps have the advantage of providing both heating and cooling from a single unit, which eliminates the need for a dual fuel source. In the heating mode, heat pumps have a distinct environmental advantage over furnaces since thermal energy is transferred rather than created by burning fossil fuel. Heat pumps are particularly well-suited for climates with relatively mild winters like Birmingham, Alabama.
How Does a Heat Pump Work?
Air conditioners and heat pumps are both based on the principles of the refrigeration cycle. However, a heat pump incorporates a device known as a “reversing valve,” which changes the refrigerant flow depending on the thermostat mode. When cooling your home, a heat pump works exactly like an air conditioner. In the heating mode, heat energy is extracted from the outdoor air and drawn into the living area. Efficiency falls dramatically in cold weather since there is less available heat in a given volume of air.
Purchasing and Installing a Heat Pump
In new construction and replacement applications, it is important to choose a heat pump that will meet your performance and budget expectations. A successful heat pump installation always includes the following elements:
- Load Calculations: Choose a dealer who runs complete load calculations before establishing the capacity of the equipment. AtOne Source Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, all of the heat pump systems we install conform to ACCA Manual J standards.
- Duct Inspection: While often overlooked, a properly sized and sealed duct system is essential to maximize the performance of your heat pump. Always check to make sure your HVAC contractor has verified the integrity of your air distribution system before installing new equipment.
- Testing: No heat pump system installation should be completed until it is properly tested, and the registers have been air balanced. Performance testing ensures that your new system will deliver the comfort and efficiency promised by the equipment manufacturer.
Heat Pump Repair
A dependable heat pump is a necessity, especially when the temperature starts to rise in the late spring. At One Source Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we employ technicians who have the experience and knowledge to repair virtually any brand of heat pump. Service calls are always prioritized, and we provide 24-hour service for emergency situations.
Heat Pump Maintenance
A heat pump preventive maintenance plan will help lower utility costs, extend the life of the equipment and prevent an unexpected service disruption. On a semiannual basis, our technicians come to your home or office and perform a number of important maintenance services. Every major equipment manufacturer includes a requirement for regular maintenance as a provision of their warranty coverage.
The Heat Pump Professionals
One Source Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is your Birmingham, AL, heat pump repair and installation specialist. Call today to learn more about the benefits of a modern heat pump, schedule a free system evaluation or request 24/7 service repair.