- A heat pump can cool your home by transferring heat outside, similar to an air conditioner.
- It offers efficient temperature control and can be used with a multi-split system to adjust temperatures in different rooms.
- Heat pumps dehumidify better than air conditioners, but you may need to add ductwork later for optimal performance.
Running a heat pump in the heat: Using your pump in reverse
Many homeowners wonder if their heat pump can also keep their home cool. The answer is yes, but it works a little bit differently from a traditional air conditioner.
A heat pump uses a refrigerant to transfer heat, similar to how an air conditioner works.
The key difference is the reversing valve inside the heat pump. This valve allows the unit to switch between heating and cooling modes. In cooling mode, the heat pump moves heat from inside your house to the outdoors.
Heat pumps are efficient because they transfer heat rather than generate it. This makes them a great choice for maintaining comfortable temperatures. If you have a multi-split system, you can control the temperature in each room individually. For example, you can keep your living space warmer while cooling your bedroom.
However, it’s important to note that a heat pump cannot provide heating and cooling simultaneously. You can only choose one mode at a time.
In summer, heat pumps excel at dehumidifying the air, often better than traditional air conditioners. Keep in mind, though, that you might need to add ductwork to get the full benefits. This can be done after the initial installation if needed.
A heat pump offers both heating and cooling solutions, making it a versatile option for year-round comfort.
