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Heat pumps and air conditioners are very similar in some ways and different in others. They both operate similarly for cooling, but heat pumps have added heating functionality. Investing in an air conditioner means that you’ll have a separate heating system as well.
But if you are interested in heat pumps in Janesville, WI, you’ll get an all-in-one solution for both heating and cooling, eliminating the need for a separate heater. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between heat pumps and air conditioners and what kind of heat pump to choose if that’s the HVAC system you decide to invest in.
Pros and Cons of Heat Pumps
The primary benefit of a heat pump is that it is an all-in-one heating and cooling solution. When you select a heat pump as your home HVAC solution you can save space over having a separate air conditioner and separate heater. Reducing storage space may help you to use a closet in your home for another purpose instead.
And if you go with a ductless heat pump you stand to save even more space by eliminating the need for ductwork. Heat pumps are well known for energy efficiency, especially for heating. The energy efficiency of cooling is fairly close to that of a central air conditioner since the two systems work the same way for cooling.
But here in Wisconsin we can see some pretty cold temperatures during the winter, so heating is definitely a hot topic – no pun intended. Because of the need for elevated heating ability you want to invest in a cold-weather heat pump model if this is the system you decide to invest in for your home and family.
Pros and Cons of Central Air Conditioners
Central air conditioners are largely considered the tried-and-true solution for home cooling. Central air conditioner technology has come so far in recent years to offer great efficiency while also effectively cooling a home.
In our area of the country, central air conditioners offer the indirect benefit of focusing solely on cooling so that you can have a separate furnace specifically for heating. If you really want to have a gas furnace, this is important. It is possible to have a small add-on furnace alongside a heat pump, but most homeowners don’t have both a heat pump and a full-size gas furnace.
A dedicated heater is great because it offers superior heating power. This separate system allows your central air conditioner the chance to rest during the off-season. This rest period can extend the life of your central air conditioner. A heat pump on the other hand has to work year-round for both heating and cooling without a break during any portion of the year.
The only potential downside you may want to consider with a central air conditioner is the ductwork required for channeling air. It’s something you also have to consider with a central heat pump. Over time ductwork seals can loosen and develop holes. When ductwork is not sealed properly so that it is airtight, air escapes before reaching your home.
Contact Benner Heating & Air for all your heating and cooling needs. We can help you choose between a heat pump and a central air conditioner. It’s Better with Benner.