When it comes to keeping your home comfortable, you have a couple of different options. The two main alternatives include a heat pump or air conditioner. This article looks at the pros and cons of each option, so you can make the best decision for your home.
To learn more about how to choose a heat pump or air conditioner and find out which alternative is best for your home and needs, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons. As leading HVAC contractors serving the St. Louis area since 1950, we are experts when it comes to all types of systems.
Understanding How the Systems Work
Let us first see how heat pumps and air-conditioners work before getting into how to choose a heat pump or an air-conditioner.
How Air Conditioners Work
Air conditioner units work by using a refrigerant to cool the air inside your home. The refrigerant is a chemical that absorbs heat when it is compressed, and the air conditioner uses it to remove heat from the air inside your home.
The air conditioner has two coils: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. The evaporator coil is located inside your home, and it absorbs heat from the air. The refrigerant in the coil then evaporates, and as it does, heat is released.
How Heat Pumps Work
A heat pump is a device that transfers heat from a colder area to a hotter area by using mechanical energy. There are two main types of heat pumps – air-source and ground source. Air-source heat pumps are the most common type and use the air outside to heat or cool a space.
Ground-source heat pumps are a type of mechanical heat pump that uses the earth as a heat source in winter and a heat sink in summer. In the winter, the earth’s heat is extracted and used to heat the building. In the summer, the heat in your home or building is transferred to the ground.
Now, for the important question: how to choose a heat pump or an air conditioner.
How to Choose a Heat Pump or an Air Conditioner
There are a few key factors to consider when it comes to knowing how to choose a heat pump or air conditioner for your St. Louis home.
First, think about the climate. St. Louis experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. If you want to be comfortable year-round, you will need a system that can handle both extremes. An air conditioner will keep you cool in the summer, but you will need a separate heating system for the winter. A heat pump can do both, making it a more versatile option.
Next, consider the size of your home. If you have a large home, you will need a more powerful system to keep it comfortable. A small air conditioner may be sufficient for a small home, but for a larger home, we will need a larger system, which is more expensive. A heat pump is generally better equipped to handle a larger space.
Finally, think about your budget. Air conditioners are less expensive to purchase and install than heat pumps, but they are also less efficient and have higher operating costs.
A heat pump may be a more expensive upfront investment, but it will save you money in the long run by providing both heating and cooling. An air conditioner is less expensive to purchase and install, but you will need to factor in the cost of a separate heating system as well.
Learn More About How to Choose the Best Heat Pump or Air Conditioner
Choosing the right heating and cooling system for your home can be difficult. If you need help deciding which cooling/heating system is right for you, contact Galmiche & Sons. We will help you find the perfect solution for your home.
