In our northeast Ohio climate, an air-source heat pump offers an exceptional energy-saving alternative to conventional heating and cooling equipment. Heat pumps work in a similar manner to refrigerators in that they use electricity and the heat-exchange properties of refrigerant to transfer heat from a cool space to a warmer one. In a home, the heat pump removes heat from the interior for efficient cooling, and transfers outside heat energy into the home for efficient heating.
Because of how heat pumps operate, they can be used both during the summer and winter to provide year-round indoor comfort. While heat pump cooling rivals high-efficiency air conditioners for cooling (since they use the same technology to remove heat from the home), heat pump heating boasts far better energy efficiency than even the most efficient combustion heating systems. The ability to both heat and cool the home gives a heat pump an impressive advantage over an A/C.
If you are considering installing a heat pump in your Lorain or Cleveland area home, you can expect a normal lifespan of about 15 years. However, this service life can be cut in half if the system is not kept well-maintained, is poorly sized or installed, or is located in the wrong place. Consult with a professional HVAC technician to discuss the most efficient type and location for a heat pump in your home, as well as to ensure that it’s properly sized and installed.
Additionally, homeowners should follow the following maintenance steps:
- During winter, ice may build up on the outdoor coil. This frost will impede the heat pump’s ability to provide heat indoors. Check to be sure the defrost cycle is properly working and that the outside coil is kept clear of excessive ice (some frost is normal).
- Regularly clean or replace air filters, as per manufacturer recommendations.
- Keep the fins on the outdoor condenser unit clean and free of debris.
- Prevent any plant growth or yard debris within 18 inches of the outside unit.
To learn more about installing a heat pump in your home, contact your local HVAC experts at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning, proudly serving homeowners in Lorain, Erie and Cuyahoga counties.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about heat pumps and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area