We’ve only got a couple of weeks before the weather starts to warm up. If you think that your current air conditioner might not have the chops to get you through another California summer, now is a pretty good time to replace it. There are a lot of different options available when it comes to cooling systems, some of which you may never even have considered before. Let’s have a look at one of those options, the heat pump, and how it can benefit you this season.
Heat Pump Operation
What makes the heat pump unique is its construction. It’s built much like an air conditioner, but with one important difference: the reversing valve. This is a 4-way valve located in the heat pump’s refrigerant line that allows it to change the direction that fluid flows through it. By doing this, the system can switch back and forth between heating and cooling functions.
Advantages of Using a Heat Pump
A lot of homeowners are fond of heat pumps because they’re energy efficient and convenient. Being able to rely on one climate control system throughout the year saves a lot of money and space. Not having to burn fuel to heat the home saves money, as well. If you’re looking for a system that will save you money and make climate control easier, a heat pump might be the perfect installation for your needs.
Some Things to Know
While there are many advantages to using a heat pump system for climate control, there are some unique considerations you need to be aware of as well. First, you should know that a heat pump tends to suffer in extremely cold weather. The system relies on the thermal energy in the air outside to heat the home. The colder it is, the less heat is available for the system to siphon and release inside. California is hardly the most frigid place in the country, but it still bears thinking about when you’re considering installing one.
The second thing to consider is something you’re going to have to deal with more often. Every year, in fact. Heat pumps are used year-round, unlike their counterparts that are only capable of heating or air conditioning. Because of this added use, the system is more prone to wear and tear. That means that without enough maintenance, your heat pump will be more likely to develop problems of various kinds. The best way around this is to schedule preventive maintenance at least twice a year, once during the spring and once during the fall. This will be enough to keep the system in good condition. Just make sure that you have a professional contractor you trust taking care of it for you.
Comfy Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. provides a full range of heat pump installation services in Fremont, CA. If you need a new heat pump installed in your home, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians. We’ll find the perfect heat pump for you.