While air-source heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, they perform best in climates without long periods of below-freezing temperatures such as that of Greater Los Angeles. Recognized for producing as much as three times more energy than it consumes, an air-source heat pump works on the principle of moving heat from the air rather than that of burning combustible gases.

Air-Source Heat Pump Benefits

As the name indicates, an air-source heat pump gets heat and cold from the air outside. Some of the benefits are:

  • Lower fuel bills
  • Lesser carbon emissions
  • No need for deliveries of fuel
  • Less maintenance
  • Easy installment

How It Works

The air-source heat pump’s design involves a refrigeration system that includes a compressor as well as two copper tubing coils with aluminum  fins to help in transferring heat. One coil is placed inside the home while the other is installed outside. When heating is desired the coil outside with its liquid refrigerant draws heat from the air and transforms it into a gas. Then the indoor coil releases the heat as the refrigerant condenses into liquid form. For cooling, a reversing valve changes the direction the refrigerant flows.

However, electric resistance coils (akin to those in a toaster) come to work when the temperature outdoors falls to less than 40 degrees, to supply heat indoors. That is why air-source heat pumps in colder climates need gas-fired furnaces or reverse cycle chillers for efficient indoor heating. Air source heat pumps are now being designed for  colder climates.

Choosing An Air-Source Heat Pump

To select an air-source heat pump for your home, pick the one with the Energy Star label. Whether you are planning to repair your A/C, or replace it, contact Around the Clock Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Los Angeles, North Hollywood and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about air-source heat pumps and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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