Keeping Cool With Heat Pumps This Summer
Summer is right around the corner, and for many homeowners, that means dusting off the old window AC units in preparation for the impending heat. But there is a better solution for keeping your home cool during the hot summer months – heat pumps.
When we talk about heat pumps, we don’t tell the whole story. It may seem like a crazy time to discuss heat pumps, but they are not just about heating! While it may get steaming hot across the country, the winter will come eventually. Heat pumps are incredibly versatile systems that can provide both heating and cooling for your home. Let’s explore why heat pumps are the ideal system for staying comfortable this summer.
How Do Heat Pumps Work?
Heat pumps work by moving heat, rather than generating it as many other HVAC systems do. During the summer, a heat pump removes heat from the indoors and moves it outside, keeping your home nice and cool.
A heat pump system consists of an outdoor unit, much like an AC condenser, as well as indoor air handling units. The outdoor unit contains a compressor and coils that circulate refrigerant, which absorbs heat from your home. As the hot refrigerant moves through the coils in the outdoor unit, the heat dissipates outside, leaving cooled refrigerant to be pumped back indoors.
Inside, the cooled refrigerant flows through another set of coils, which absorb heat from the indoor air and provide cool air to your home. The refrigerant is then pumped back to the outdoor unit, and the cycle continues.
Benefits of Heat Pumps for Summer
There are many reasons why heat pumps are the best option for cooling your home during the hot summer months:
- Energy efficiency – Heat pumps provide cooling at a much higher efficiency than traditional AC units. This means lower energy bills, even on the hottest days.
- Whole home cooling – Unlike window units, heat pumps can cool your entire home from a single system. No more sweating it out in certain rooms!
- Comfort – Heat pumps circulate and filter the air, keeping temperatures consistent and removing dust and allergens.
- Versatility – As mentioned, heat pumps work for both cooling and heating. Get the best of both worlds with one system.
- Quiet operation – Modern heat pumps produce very little noise compared to older AC units. Keep the windows open and enjoy the fresh air without disruptive noise.
- Clean air – Heat pumps reduce airborne bacteria, mold spores, and other contaminants through air filters. Great news for allergy sufferers!
- Cost savings – The energy efficiency and dual functionality of heat pumps lead to lower utility bills year-round.
Heat Pump Features for Summer Cooling
There are certain features and modes that make heat pumps ideal cooling solutions for summer:
- Variable speed compressor – This allows the system to adjust cooling output based on conditions and demand, providing very efficient operation.
- Dehumidification mode – Heat pumps can reduce indoor humidity levels to keep things comfortable, not clammy.
- Powerful mode – Turbo charge the cooling temporarily when you need an extra blast of chill.
- Remote control – Control your comfort from anywhere in the home. Crank up the cold before you walk in the door!
- Sleep mode – Have the system gradually adjust temps overnight for uninterrupted sleep.
- Smart/app control – New WiFi-enabled pumps can integrate with home automation systems and be controlled via smartphones.
- Zoned cooling – Separate temperature control for different areas of the home for customized comfort.
Heat Pump Brands We Recommend
There are many great heat pump brands on the market from major manufacturers like Daikin, Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, and more. We recommend the following models for superior cooling performance, efficiency, and features:
Daikin Fit – Extremely energy efficient and whisper quiet. Great for indoor installation and open floor plans.
Mitsubishi Hyper Heat – Provide efficient cooling even when it’s down to -13°F outdoors! Ideal for hot humid climates.
Fujitsu Halcyon – Excellent humidification control. Large capacity for cooling large spaces. WiFi connectivity.
Carrier Infinity – Variable speed operation, dehumidification modes, and smart home integration. Top of the line.
Trane XV – Durable, reliable, highly efficient. Great for multi-stage cooling. Integrates with smart home platforms.
LG Art Cool – Gorgeous aesthetic design, slim and modern. Whisper quiet operation.
No matter which reputable brand you choose, proper installation by qualified technicians is critical to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Contact our team for expert heat pump installation and maintenance.
Heat Pumps Beyond Cooling
The benefits of heat pumps extend well beyond just cooling your home in summer. Here are some other ways heat pumps can improve comfort and efficiency year-round:
- Heating – Heat pumps are extremely effective home heating systems in mild to moderate climates. Save hugely on bills compared to electric or gas heat.
- Hot water – An add-on heat pump water heater provides endless hot water far more efficiently than conventional water heaters.
- Air purification – Filter out dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other irritants for cleaner indoor air.
- Ventilation – System fans circulate air and create healthy airflow throughout your home.
- Zoned comfort – Separate temperature control for different areas of your home for customized comfort.
- Humidity control – Manage indoor humidity levels year-round for maximum comfort and efficiency.
- Smart connectivity – New WiFi-enabled models allow remote access, automation, and voice control.
- Rebates and incentives – Many utilities offer rebates and incentives for installing energy efficient heat pumps.
Heat pumps have come a long way in recent years, with vast improvements in technology, efficiency, and capabilities. They are hands down the best investment you can make for staying comfortable this summer and saving big on energy costs year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Pumps
Here are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners have about heat pumps:
How is a heat pump different from air conditioning?
- Air conditioners only provide cooling, while heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling from a single system. Heat pumps move heat, while AC units generate cold air.
Is a heat pump just a reverse air conditioner?
- Essentially yes. The refrigeration cycle is reversed to either absorb heat indoors and discharge it outdoors (cooling) or absorb heat outdoors and discharge it indoors (heating).
Can I replace my furnace entirely with a heat pump?
- In moderate climates, heat pumps can often eliminate the need for a furnace altogether. The only exception is places where extreme winter temps require a backup heating source.
Is a heat pump more expensive than an AC unit or furnace?
- Upfront costs are generally more due to the dual-functionality, but lower energy costs offset the higher initial price over time. Especially compared to running separate AC and furnace systems.
How long do heat pumps usually last?
- The average lifespan of a properly installed and maintained heat pump is 15-20 years. Though some may last 25 years or longer.
What type of maintenance do heat pumps require?
- Heat pumps require minimal maintenance like filter changes and cleaning coils. Annual check-ups by a technician are recommended to keep the system running at peak efficiency.
How much can I save by switching to a heat pump?
- Most homeowners save 20-40% on heating costs and 20-30% on cooling costs compared to conventional HVAC systems. Savings add up to thousands over the lifetime of the system.
Which is better, air source or geothermal heat pumps?
- Geothermal heat pumps leverage underground temperatures and can be up to 60% more efficient. However, they require excavation to install which adds significant cost. Air source pumps are far more affordable and can still provide huge efficiency gains.
Should I get quotes from multiple contractors?
- Absolutely! Pricing, expertise, and recommendations can vary greatly between contractors. Get quotes from 3-5 reputable local contractors before deciding on your best option.
We hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of how heat pumps can keep you cool this summer while saving you money and maximizing comfort year-round. Contact the team at Hiko Air today to learn more about heat pumps!
