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How to Choose Between a Heat Pump and an Air Conditioner
Are you stuck deciding between heat pumps and air conditioners? Here’s what you should know before you make your purchase.
AC vs. Heat Pumps: What They Can Do
Both of these systems can become your primary source of air conditioning in your home. Both air conditioners and heat pumps will remove heat from your home and push it outside. The most significant difference is that heat pumps can reverse this process to heat your home as well, where you would need a separate furnace to cover heating and cooling with an AC.
Heat Pump vs. AC Costs
Heat pumps are slightly more expensive than central air units. Heat pumps take care of both your heating and cooling needs, which explains the higher price tag.
Costs will vary depending on your HVAC contractor and the size of the project, so get in touch with a professional for a more accurate estimate.
Heat Pump vs. AC: How Each System Works
Each HVAC system cools your home differently. Both will use a compressor, refrigerant, and evaporator coil as part of the cooling process. The refrigerant gas is first compressed in the compressor, moved to the condensing coil, and will eventually end up in the evaporator coil, where the temperature will drop.
However, when a heat pump needs to heat your home, it will reverse this process to raise the temperature.
Choosing the Best Option
Climate will play a big role in which system you should choose. Denver residents might see sub-40 degrees for long periods in the winter, which are not ideal for heat pumps. Heat pumps have to work much harder at these temperatures, which can mean higher heating costs.
However, many don’t consider Denver to be an extremely cold climate by any stretch, so many homeowners are happy with their heat pumps. But if you are concerned, you may be better off with a separate AC and a furnace.
Energy Efficiency of Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are almost always more energy-efficient than AC. If you own a heat pump, you could qualify for rebates or tax incentives, which could assist you with the higher cost of the equipment and installation.
Whether you decide on a heat pump or an air conditioner, Northern Climate Control can install it for you! Our HVAC team can provide services anywhere in the Denver Metro area, so contact us today at to get started.
