Heat pumps are a marvel of modern technology. They exist as an alternative to air conditioners and furnaces and can be perfect in our California climate. Heat pumps are some of the most efficient heating models around. They run on electricity, function without a system of air ducts, and can provide instant heating and cooling from the flip of a switch.
To get more into the why of how a heat pump runs so efficiently, we’re going to have to talk about what exactly it does. After all, these systems don’t just magically create cold or hot air, there is a system in place to move heat from one place to another.
You might be asking yourself, “Why are heat pumps in Los Angeles, CA a good idea?” And we’ll be sure to answer that question below
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Heat Pump
Just like all HVAC systems, there are clear advantages and disadvantages. We’re going to be honest and give you a clear perspective so you can make the best choice for your home. Whether it ends up being a central air conditioner, a heat pump, or something else—let us do the handiwork for you!
Advantages
There are many advantages to running a heat pump system.
- Incredible Efficiency. Heat pumps move heat from inside your home to outside. This process can be reversed in the winter, giving you a reliable heating system on chilly days. Instead of a furnace that must create heat, a heat pump simply moves the heat which is a much more efficient process.
- Quick heating and cooling. These systems don’t need any time to cycle air through your ventilation system. Once they’re powered on, they just send the tempered air your way!
- Versatility. As we mentioned earlier, heat pumps can both heat and cool your home, which is a much simpler solution than having both an air conditioning unit and a furnace that needs to be maintained every year.
Disadvantages
There are a couple of disadvantages to heat pumps that you should be aware of.
- Increased Initial Price. Heat pumps are more expensive to install overall than a central air conditioner or a furnace. That being said, they’re definitely cheaper than purchasing both systems at the same time—so if you’re in the market for both a heater and an air conditioner, a heat pump might be perfect.
- More Maintenance. Since these systems sometimes act as both heaters and coolers all-year-round, they’re going to need more maintenance visits than a normal air conditioner or heater.
- Loss of Effectiveness/Efficiency at Colder Temperatures. We highly discourage the use of heat pumps in climates where winters are brutal. Heat pumps lose efficiency the colder the weather gets. This likely won’t be an issue for us here in California, but it’s definitely something to consider!
So, now that you’ve got the lowdown, what do you think? Feel free to keep this list close by when you contact a professional for installation, to make sure you choose the right system for your home, your family, and your comfort!
Contact JMS Air Conditioning and Heating today for your heat pump installation. We’ll get it done right!
