Is a Heat Pump Better than Central Air Conditioning?

Some Arlington VA residents may wonder about the benefits of a heat pump for condensing heating and cooling into a single system component. Others are devoted fans of their separate systems, preferring to use a furnace for winter and an air conditioner for summer home comfort needs. The question about which is better is dependent on your household use of both warm and cold weather climate control.

Heat Pump vs. Central Air Conditioner: What You Need to Know

One of the most important considerations in comparing these systems is efficiency ratings. Modern equipment has higher ratings than older equipment, so replacing an central air conditioner may provide you with a huge improvement in operating expenses and home comfort no matter which equipment choice you pursue. The SEER, seasonal energy efficiency rating, may be slightly higher in an AC unit. The differences aren’t huge, and you will find that either component is great for dealing with a sticky Virginia summer.

Your greater concern may be based on the heating debate. You can’t ignore your heating options when you think about an HVAC upgrade to a pump design. Heating efficiencies are different for pump refrigerant-based systems and fossil fuel systems. The pump system can be less efficient during the harshest winter temperatures, and on these days, it makes a lot of sense to have a reliable furnace. This doesn’t mean that a refrigerant-based pump isn’t useful, however.

Consider Dual Fuel Systems

A dual fuel system combines a heat pump and a furnace so that your cooling is handled appropriately and so that the most efficient option is employed on a given day to heat your home. The pump handles mild weather heating, and the furnace takes over on icy days. This provides you with the best operating costs and comfort levels possible for each day of the year.

Energy Efficiency Benefits

Selecting a high-efficiency system is wise because it can save you a lot of money in operating costs. You can also take advantage of energy tax credits if you choose eligible system components. Modern systems exceed the ratings of older units by anywhere from 25 to 40 percent, so an upgrade makes a lot of sense for many local customers.

Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning is committed to providing you with the best system for your home. While it sounds helpful to read about the benefits of each system, it’s important to have a professional load calculation done to ensure that you select the right equipment for your home. Each structure is unique, and your budget needs are unique as well. You can contact us by phone or email to schedule a consultation. This will allow us to determine how either type of system specifically meets your needs.