Heat pumps are often misunderstood yet remarkably cost-effective for heating your home. Among the various types of heat pumps, the air source heat pump is the most common and will be the focus here. Heat pumps perform the same function as air conditioners in the summer, but in the winter, they reverse the cycle. Instead of absorbing heat from indoor air and rejecting it outside, they absorb heat from outdoor air and transfer it indoors to warm the home.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

In the winter, an air source heat pump extracts heat from the outdoor air and transfers it to the evaporator coil inside your home. This process allows heat pumps to operate efficiently and provide heat even in cooler temperatures. However, as the temperature drops significantly, an auxiliary heat source, such as a gas furnace or an air handler with auxiliary heat strips, may be necessary to meet the heating demand.

The balance point is the temperature at which a heat pump can heat the home without needing a backup heat source. This varies based on the heat loss of the structure and the size of the heat pump installed.

Heat Pumps: Efficient Cooling in the Summer

A key benefit of heat pumps is their versatility. During the summer, a heat pump functions just like an air conditioner, cooling your home by transferring heat from the indoors to the outdoors. This dual functionality makes heat pumps an efficient year-round solution for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures.

Overcoming Heat Pump Misconceptions

Poor installation practices in the past have contributed to a negative perception of heat pumps. However, when properly installed, heat pumps can be an efficient solution for many homes. Key factors to consider include duct insulation and sizing, and air infiltration. One drawback for some people is that the supply air temperature from a heat pump can sometimes feel cooler if it blows directly on you, as it may be lower than body temperature.

Propane Savings and Energy Efficiency

With propane prices rising in southwest Missouri this winter, a heat pump can significantly reduce heating costs. Heat pumps can save propane customers between 30% to 50% on their heating expenses. Additionally, a heat pump is considerably more efficient than an electric furnace, making it an excellent option for all-electric homes. While natural gas prices are relatively low, making heat pump savings less substantial compared to propane or electric resistance heating, a properly installed heat pump still offers substantial long-term energy savings.

Heat Pump Installation Practices

A heat pump is not suitable for every home, and proper installation is crucial. Factors such as duct insulation, sizing, and air infiltration need to be considered. An experienced HVAC contractor can ensure that your heat pump system is tailored to your home's specific needs, providing efficient and reliable heating.

Experience the Warmth: Install a New Heat Pump for Cozy Missouri Winters

In conclusion, heat pumps are a highly efficient and cost-effective heating solution, especially for homes reliant on propane or electric resistance heating. By partnering with SS&B Heating & Cooling in Springfield, MO, you can benefit from expert guidance and professional installation, ensuring optimal performance and long-term energy savings.

A new heat pump installation provides ample heat to keep your home warm throughout the harshest Missouri winter months. Don't miss out on the potential of heat pumps to revolutionize your heating system and provide you with years of reliable warmth and savings.