When it comes to beating the heat in your home or place of business, your options include installing a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system or a heat pump.
How do you know which type of solution will be best for your particular circumstances? You'll need to consider factors including your location, climate and desire for energy efficiency.
HVAC System
Installing only an air conditioning unit does not mean you have an HVAC system.
A heating, ventilation and air conditioning system consists of both an AC unit for keeping the building cool and for maintaining warmth.
The AC component has evaporator coils that contain refrigerant. It works in a process similar to that used in your refrigerator.
An AC unit uses a fan to blow hot air over the evaporator coils. When the hot air in your home or business comes in contact with the coils, the refrigerant gas inside the coils absorbs the heat, switching from a liquid to a gas state. Then the HVAC system sends the refrigerant outside to evacuate the heat outdoors through condenser coils. The gas cools down and turns into a liquid again, and goes back into the evaporator coils in a continuous cycle.
You control the ambient temperature in your building with a thermostat, which activates the air conditioning system depending on the level you set.
Heat Pump
A heat pump functions in same way as the air conditioner. Its liquid will absorb heat, turning into a gas, and then it releases heat outside and transforms back into the liquid state. You use your heat pump during the summer just as you would a central air conditioning system.
However, in the winter, your heat pump will reverse the process, a feat that your air conditioning system cannot accomplish.
A heat pump operates most efficiently when the temperature ranges from 45 degrees Fahrenheit to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
People who rely on heat pumps and find themselves experiencing the bitter cold of winter will often decide to get an auxiliary heating method, such as an electric or gas furnace to use as an emergency backup. Air Handlers also have auxiliary back up heat strips that can accomplish this, as well.
So, if you live in an extremely cold environment, an HVAC system with a furnace will most likely be the best option for you. If you live in a region with a moderate climate, such as the mid-south, a heat pump will likely be a good option for you.
It's prudent to consult with an HVAC professional, such as those at David Gray Heating & Air. We have the knowledge, skills and experience to help you quickly assess which will be the best solution for your home or business. We will be happy to come to your location and do an inspection as we determine the best course to take to keep you comfortable in hot and cold weather.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections Are Necessary
Whether you decide to go with an HVAC system or a heat pump to provide comfort, it's important for you to keep in mind the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that the equipment is functioning properly.
Arrange for a technician to come by at least once a year. Many people opt to use the services of the knowledgeable professionals at David Gray Heating & Air to take care of all their AC and heat pump needs.
For more information about installing a heat pump or an HVAC system at your business or residential location, please feel free to contact the experts at David Gray today. We're looking forward to hearing from you.