Heat Pumps Explained

Has your home heating system reached the end of its useful life? Before making a final decision on a replacement, it’s important to have all the information at hand. At Sheldon’s Heating and Air Conditioning, we have experience installing numerous systems for reliable Riverside heating. That includes heat pumps, well known for their energy efficiency and dual duty as a combined heating and cooling system. Learn more about heat pumps, how they compare to other HVAC systems, and the pros and cons of choosing one for your home.

What Is a Heat Pump?

Heat pumps provide heat to residential and commercial buildings by transferring energy via refrigeration systems. Most makes and models now offer reverse refrigeration services that also cool your home by transferring heat energy outside or to an underground system.

Types of Heat Pumps

Most heat pumps transfer heat indoors and outdoors as needed and are known as air-source heat pumps. They typically reduce your electricity bill by up to 50% compared to baseboard heaters and furnaces. Geothermal heat pumps use a water or ground source and can achieve even higher efficiencies. Unfortunately, they cost more to install and require more space to bury the geothermal portion of your HVAC system. Ductless mini-split heat pumps are also available if your home doesn’t have ductwork.

What’s the Difference Between Heat Pumps and Traditional HVAC?

As indicated, heat pumps will both heat and cool your home while furnaces, air conditioners, and other HVAC systems typically serve one purpose or the other. In many homes, AC is combined with furnaces to provide year-round climate control. However, heat pumps allow you to reduce your HVAC systems without sacrificing comfort.

Although they have a higher upfront cost, heat pumps eliminate the need for multiple appliances, maintenance, and upkeep. Additionally, you could end up saving money on your monthly utility bills.

Our team will run the necessary tests to determine if a heat pump would work in your home. If so, we’ll also make recommendations regarding the type of system you need for practical Riverside heating.

Heat Pump Pros and Cons

Now that you know what a heat pump is and how it compares to other HVAC systems, it’s time to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. When you’re ready, our team can perform the heating installation accurately and efficiently.

Pros

Heat pumps have many advantages to consider compared to other heating and cooling systems:

• Higher heating efficiency
• Lower energy bills
• Heating and cooling in one system
• No gas and carbon monoxide dangers
• Doesn’t require fossil fuels
• 2023 tax rebates are available

Cons

The disadvantages of heat pumps include a higher upfront cost for the equipment and vulnerability to extreme temperatures (though not generally an issue in Southern California):

• May have higher installation costs
• Uses more electricity since the system is 100% electric
• Vulnerable to power outages
• Less efficient in severe cold weather

Riverside Heating Pros Can Install Your Heat Pump Quickly

Sheldon's Heating & Air Conditioning serves the residents of Riverside County and the surrounding area with quality-guaranteed installations and service. Our licensed, certified technicians will give you an honest assessment of the best heating and cooling combination for you. If you would like to schedule a consultation for your home heating needs, reach out to us today!