If you’re in the market for a new cooling system, you might have heard that you can replace your traditional central air unit with a heat pump. While both options provide fresh, cool in the summer, a heat pump can warm your home through the winter. But can a heat pump really replace your furnace through Michigan’s freezing temps?
Today, we’ll look at both options and consider which makes the most sense for your home.
What is an Air Conditioner?
Traditional central air conditioners work by connecting two units with refrigerant lines. The indoor unit, called the compressor, compresses heat into the refrigerant. The outdoor unit, the condenser releases that heat and cools that refrigerant back down so it can pick up another load of heat.
The cold air left behind after the indoor unit compresses heat from the air is then blown through your ducts to cool your home, while the water that it condenses in the process is drained away, reducing home humidity to keep mugginess at bay.
What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is almost identical to an air conditioner in function, using an indoor unit, outdoor unit, and refrigerant to pass heat around in the same way, using your existing ductwork. A heat pump, however, can reverse the process, compressing heat from outside and then venting it indoors, where it’s blown through your ducts to heat your home.
Ductless mini-splits work the same way but with multiple indoor units blowing cool or warm air directly into your rooms instead of using an air handler and ductwork.
Differences Between Heat Pumps and Central Air
Besides a heat pump’s dual-functionality, there are several differences in short-term and long-term costs and benefits to consider. Compared to central air conditioning, heat pumps offer:
- Comparable installation costs: A heat pump generally costs more to install than a replacement central AC, though it may eliminate your need for a furnace. What’s more, you may qualify for tax credits and rebates to offset installation costs.
- Lower operation costs: Heat pumps are more efficient at dehumidifying than traditional central AC systems, and lower humidity can help you feel more comfortable while reducing the energy needed to cool your home. You’ll likely enjoy even more energy savings in the winter, as heat pumps may reduce your heating bill by as much as 50% when used to replace your furnace.
- Improved indoor air quality: A heat pump does not rely on combustion to heat your home. It uses electricity, not fossil fuels and reduces carbon emissions by over 90% when used in place of a gas furnace.
Is a Heat Pump Good for Michigan Homes?
When they were first introduced, heat pumps were primarily recommended for regions with mild climates, as they were not yet capable of handling low temperatures in the winter.
While modern heat pumps are still at their most impressive efficiency when temperatures are above freezing, they can now operate in temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for taking on our famous lake-effect snowstorms. For the best efficiency and performance in temperatures under 20 degrees, we may recommend a dual-source heat pump, which offers energy savings in milder temperatures and includes a furnace that kicks on during extreme cold fronts.
Choose Robin Aire for HVAC Installation
When it’s time to decide on installing air conditioning or a heat pump, let the experienced HVAC technicians at Robin Aire Service Company help you find the perfect fit for your family. Since 1985, we’ve provided exceptional service across Southeast Michigan, and we look forward to bringing the latest in home comfort upgrades to your home.
If you’re ready to discuss your options for new HVAC equipment or want to request a quote for air conditioning or heat pump systems, contact us today and a member of the Robin Aire Service Company team will be in touch with you shortly.
