Where you get your heat from makes a huge difference in both your home efficiency and your comfort. For instance, conventional air source heat pumps are more efficient than other heating systems such as furnaces and boilers, but they’re not as efficient as ground source heat pumps. What they lack in efficiency, they make up for in affordability, since air is all around us and the installation isn’t very labor intensive.
For many of our customers, they’re in the midst of deciding which heat pump is the right one for them and they need assistance. We’re here to guide you from start to finish!
Let’s talk about the main question–whether an air or ground source heat pump is right for you.
The Science Behind an Air Source Heat Pump
Air source heat pumps work by moving heat from one area to another. This is basically how every heat pump works, but air source heat pumps get their heat energy from the ambient air around your home.
This process is practically a revolution for the HVAC industry, since moving heat from one place to another is a lot more energy efficient than creating new heat like a furnace or boiler does. This is why these systems are so effective–they’re basically just like your air conditioner, but able to heat your home as well as cool it.
Advantages
While air source heat pumps might not be as energy efficient as ground source heat pumps, they’re still exceptionally efficient. They’re also more affordable to install and take less time. Since these systems draw their heat energy from the atmosphere, they don’t require any underground lines or anything more than what a conventional AC installation would require.
Disadvantages
Heat pumps are still more expensive than conventional heating appliances such as furnaces and boilers, so if you’re on an incredibly tight budget, they’re not going to be the cheapest systems you can find.
Air source heat pumps are also not the most efficient systems when looking at all the heat pump systems available. Ground source heat pumps are more efficient and last longer.
Ground Source Heat Pumps: Peak Energy Efficiency
Ground source heat pumps get their heat energy for your home comfort from the ground. Under your home, temperatures range from 40-50°F, and they stay consistent throughout the whole year. This allows a heat pump system to use that energy for heating and cooling needs.
Advantages
The main advantages of a ground source heat pump are efficiency and longevity. You’ll get extremely high efficiency rates because there’s always heat energy underground for your heat pumps to easily use.
Also, ground source heat pumps can last exceptionally long, with underground pipes remaining in good shape for almost 50 years!
Disadvantages
Unfortunately, geothermal heat pumps are some of the most expensive units on the market, and they’re not achievable for many customers on tight budgets. However, the good news is that due to advancements in technology and recent legislation, they are getting more affordable over time.
Also, ground source heat pumps can be intensive and disruptive to your property since the lines need to be inserted underground.
Work with our team to find the best HVAC system that works for you and your budget.
Contact NP Environmental to schedule a consultation or for more information on your next big heat pump upgrade.