Heat Pumps 101: What to Know

Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Pump Repair and Replacement 

Heat pumps are an important component of a functioning HVAC system. They manage heating and cooling and consume more than half of a home's energy consumption, per the U.S. Department of Energy. So, it's natural to question these systems and how they operate. 

Some commonly-asked inquiries include: 

What's a Heat Pump? 

There are four main types of heat pumps, and they include: 

• Ducted air-source pumps. These rely on air ducts throughout the home to channel conditioned air from one zone to the next. 
• Ductless air-source heat pumps. As the name suggests, these units do not require ducts. 
• Geothermal heat pumps. These units transfer heat from the home to the ground or a nearby water source. 
• Absorption heat pumps. These units rely on heat or thermal energy to operate. They're fairly large, making them uncommon for most domiciles. 

All of these units do the same thing at their core: take the cool air from outside, heat it up, then funnel it indoors. They can also do the opposite, generating cool air from hot air. These are a convenient, cheaper alternative to centralized heating systems for many homeowners. 

Many heat pumps (namely, those procured by EnergyStar) are eligible for tax credits and rebates under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. This legislature makes installing energy-efficient appliances affordable for various households based on their earnings. 

What Are Some Heat Pump Benefits? 

There are many benefits to having a heat pump, including: 

• They're energy efficient. New heat pumps on today's market are amazing at giving homeowners the most bang for their buck. That's why the U.S. Government has included them in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, hoping to reduce the nation's carbon footprint over the next few decades. 
• They offer "zoning" features. Heat pumps control certain "zones" in the home, giving homeowners more control over their residences' indoor air quality and temperature. These appliances are versatile, allowing for installation regardless of air duct infrastructure. 
• They lower homeowners' energy bills. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average Alabama homeowner spends about $150 a month on utility bills. One could spend well below the state average with an energy-efficient heat pump.

When Does a Heat Pump Need Servicing? 

A heat pump system may need a professional's attention if: 

• The home never gets to the desired temperature
• The heat pump leaks
• The home's energy bills are more expensive than usual
• There's weak airflow coming from the appliance
• The heat pump turns on, then quickly shuts off
• A homeowner smells something burning
• Ice builds up on the inside or outside of the unit
• The system itself is more than 10 years old

As a good rule of thumb, a homeowner should schedule a heating maintenance visit every year. This way, a professional can service the system and ensure that it doesn't incur any unexpected problems. 

About Chad's AC Direct 

At Chad's AC Direct, they're direct. When they get a call, they go directly to the client's home, ready to repair, replace, or install HVAC systems. They also offer straightforward advice, honest estimates, and dedication that comes with years of service. Residents in and around Montgomery, AL can call now. 

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