Heat pumps are excellent HVAC units since they offer both heating and cooling all within a single system. But can they stand up to the very low temperatures that we see in our area? It really depends on what type of heat pump you have installed. A traditional heat pump may not be able to keep up with heating your home when temperatures reach their lowest this winter season.
But if you have a cold-weather heat pump, your home will stay comfortable all season long. If you are thinking about heat pump installation in Roanoke, VA, give our team a call to schedule an appointment. You can also keep reading to learn more about how heat pumps work to keep your home warm and why a cold-weather heat pump might be your best option.
Heat Pump Operation
Heat pumps operate in a unique way compared to other types of heaters. Refrigerant cycles through the lines to absorb heat from outside and bring it into your home as a way of increasing the air temperature. The problem with this is that the colder the weather is outside, the less heat there is to bring into your home. Low temperatures limit how well a heat pump can increase the temperature in your home on the coldest days of winter.
Potential Downsides During Winter
Aside from your home not getting warm enough, your heat pump can also take on additional wear and tear. It will continue to work hard, and maybe even harder than usual to try and heat your home up. This can result in higher energy bills without the results to match. Plus, wear and tear can lead to heat pump problems that require repairs.
It’s even possible that your heat pump will eventually break down completely. But there is good news. You have options when it comes to selecting the type of heat pump you want to install in your home. And even if you already have a standard heat pump installed but it’s not meeting your expectations, we can help.
The Cold-Weather Heat Pump Difference
There is such a thing as a cold weather heat pump that works perfectly even when temperatures drop to the single digits. Another option is a dual-fuel system, this type of heat pump has an add-on furnace that kicks in to help heat your home when your heat pump cannot keep up with warming your home. It’s the best of both worlds. You have the energy efficiency of a heat pump, along with the elevated comfort and convenience of a gas furnace.
If you have an existing heat pump, you don’t have to overhaul the entire system and replace it with a completely new unit. Instead, we can add on a gas-powered furnace to elevate heating ability. If you’re in the market for a heat pump, you may want to consider the cold weather version versus a standard heat pump.
We can help you make the best choice for heat pump service and installation. Rely on the experts at W.C. Butler Heating and Air Conditioning and schedule an appointment today.