Heat pumps work much like air conditioners. They draw in outside air to heat a home. They take the warm air out of the outside air and then provide that air to the home. In areas where winters are mild a heat pump can provide enough heat that no other heating source is necessary. However, in a cold environment a heat pump may not be able to pull enough warm air to provide sufficient heat. Heat pumps can also serve as an air conditioner by pulling warm air from inside the house and pushing it outside. Again, though, in an incredibly warm atmosphere the heat pump may not be able to pull a sufficient amount of warm air out and an additional cooling source may be needed.
The newer models of heat pumps offer great features that make then even more alluring. Many new models feature added energy efficiency and more reliability than past models. There are ground source models that pull heat from the ground instead of the air. These models provide a more constant temperature as ground temperatures are more stable than air temperatures. Some models are made with a storage so when the pump pulls more air than is needed it is stored and used when needed. This allows the heat pump to be more sufficient and provide a better heat source. Most heat pumps are operated like a typical furnace with a thermostat that allows for them to be turned on and off at certain temperatures.
Heat pumps are just gaining in popularity. They are proving to be a stable heat source that can save big money on heating and energy bills. Heat pumps are being made with more and more features that are making them more efficient and more comparable to other heating sources. The key to using a heat pump is to understand the limitations and learn the proper way to use one. A heat pump can really be a great addition and a superior choice for a home.
