Choosing The Best System For Your Home

The main difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is the heat pump’s ability to provide heating. Both systems collect heat by way of compressed refrigerant as air passes over a coil in the air handler. They each remove heat from the home and transfer it outside to create a cooling effect. A heat pump and air conditioner are nearly identical when functioning in cooling mode.

A reversing valve in the outdoor unit allows the heat pump to draw heat energy from outside air, even during very cold weather, and deliver it into the home. While an air conditioner is normally partnered with a furnace to supply heat in the winter, a heat pump handles year-round comfort demands in greater Sarasota-Bradenton-Venice Metro and surrounding areas. Because local temperatures rarely drop below 50 degrees, the heat pump requires no auxiliary heating system.

Heat pumps and air conditioners each offer unique benefits. If you’re wondering which is better for your home, we at Aqua Plumbing & Air are happy to help. Our in-field experience, level of training, and knowledge of sophisticated HVAC technology ensure rewarding and personalized recommendations. We are skilled in new installations, replacements, conversions, and a complete range of services.

Heat pump or air conditioner?

• Investment cost – The cost of the heat pump’s indoor unit is lower, but the outdoor unit typically involves a higher upfront cost than an air conditioner. Because the total cost of installation varies greatly due to the unit and specs of the home, Aqua Plumbing & Air encourages a call to 941-306-3715 to determine the total investment accurately.
• Running costs – Both heat pumps and air conditioners featuring high SEER ratings provide energy-efficient temperature control in cooling mode. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system operates and the lower the running cost. In heating mode, the higher the HSPF rating the more efficient and better the cost savings. On average, heat pumps tend to use less energy for cooling than air conditioners.
• Longevity – A number of factors impact the life expectancy of a heating/cooling system, including workload and maintenance. Air conditioners usually last longer than heat pumps. This is because heat pumps operate almost year-round while air conditioners sit idle during colder months. The drawback of a shorter lifespan can be offset by cost-saving heating. Regular tune-ups from professionals from Aqua Plumbing & Air maximize efficiency, reliability, and longevity.