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Perhaps due to the word “heat” in their name, many people are confused about heat pumps working in the summer. Heat pumps are unique appliances that can both heat and cool your home all year long. While many homeowners have to rely on an air conditioner in the summer and a furnace in the winter, others are realizing the benefits of a packaged heat pump unit.
Depending on the season, the flip of a thermostat switch will allow the unit to go between heating and cooling. Heat pumps are more convenient than having two separate systems, and they can also be more energy-efficient.
During the winter season, your heat pump will draw heat from the outside to pump heat to different rooms in your home. So, how does a heat pump work in summer? When the summer heat arrives, the system works in reverse to cool your home. The unit removes the heat and humidity from your home and circulates cool air.
A heat pump can operate just like an energy-efficient air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable. Let’s take a closer look at heat pump operation in the summer.
How does a heat pump cool in the summer?
As the name suggests, a heat pump moves heat to different locations. A geothermal heat pump transfers heat from the house to the ground outside. A regular heat pump transfers your heat to the outdoor air. With either type of unit, the heat and humidity in your home are absorbed from the air and transferred outside. The cooled refrigerant inside the system lowers the temperature of the air, and it is circulated around your house.
A heat pump can efficiently cool your entire home during the summer, similar to the way a standard air conditioner does. The benefit is that you don’t need more than one system or unit to heat and cool your home. Heat pumps have better SEER ratings than multiple HVAC appliances and can be a one-stop shop for heating and cooling. In the summer, a heat pump is just as effective at keeping your home comfortable as it is in the winter.
How can you get the most out of your heat pump this summer?
No matter the temperature or humidity level where you live in the summer, a heat pump can be very effective and efficient. However, to get the most out of your heat pump this summer, you should take a few steps. Try not to rely on the auto mode when using your heat pump as an air conditioner.
While the auto mode is convenient and allows your unit to switch between heating and cooling automatically, it can cause your system to run more frequently. Once you know that you will not require heating any longer, switch the heat pump to cooling mode to save energy and reduce frequent cycling.
Many people adjust their thermostats throughout the day with a standard HVAC system. While this is beneficial with traditional air conditioners, you don’t need to do this with your heat pump. The best way to save energy and get the most from your heat pump during summer is to set it at a comfortable level and leave it. Your heat pump is very effective at maintaining a set temperature.
Another way to get the most from your heat pump is to have your unit serviced annually. Like all HVAC equipment, you must have a qualified technician perform regular service on your heat pump to ensure that it is clean and efficient. Annual service will help your heat pump keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.
During the summer months, your heat pump will operate more efficiently than a standard air conditioner and can keep your home just as comfortable. If you are considering upgrading your HVAC system, contact a professional to learn more about how a heat pump can work for your home year-round.