Everything you wanted to know about energy-saving heat pumps

Having energy-saving heat pumps can truly make a difference in your home. In this article, learn what a heat pump is, the different options of heating and cooling systems as well as the benefits of using an energy-saving heat pump. 

What are energy-saving heat pumps?

Basically, these are an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners. Using electricity, the heat pump transfers heat from a cooler area known as a heat source to a warmer area known as a heat sink. Electrical energy is used to pump and compress the refrigerant, which is a working fluid used in the refrigeration cycle of air conditioning systems and heat pumps. 

Because a heat pump captures heat that already exists in the environment, the system itself does not burn any fuel and therefore emits no carbon dioxide. So because they transfer heat rather than generate heat, heat pumps can efficiently provide comfortable temperatures for your home.

The different types of heat pumps

There are three main types of heat pumps connected by ducts which include air-to-air, water source, and geothermal. 

Air-to-air heat pumps are inexpensive to install and are commonly used. These heat pumps function well in moderate climates, using outside air as a medium for heat exchange.

Water source heat pumps disperse heat by way of water instead of air. They require water source access and aren't as common.

Geothermal heat pumps use thermal energy from underground, transferring heat in a similar manner to air source heat pumps. Due to the constant temperature of the ground, they offer much more efficient operation. Installation of geothermal heat pumps is pricier and more complicated due to the need for excavation and installation of underground piping.

The right temperature for heat pumps

Heat pumps do not operate as efficiently when temperatures drop to less than four degrees Celcius for most systems. A heat pump works best when the temperature is above four degrees. Once outdoor temperatures drop to 4 degrees, heat pumps start losing efficiency, and they consume more energy to do their jobs.

The best temperature range for a heat pump to work most efficiently would ideally be in the 10 to 18 degrees Celcius range. In this range, heat pumps are very efficient and effective. They are still effective in the four degrees range and even down to three, however, once the temperature outside drops below zero, you will probably notice a significant drop in the heating ability of the heat pump.

Which is cheaper to run, a heat pump or a gas furnace?

Let's start with the difference between the two. A gas furnace generates heat by burning combustible fuel, while a heat pump generates heat by drawing it in from the outside, even if it's cold. So while a heat pump will not generate heat, it is able to absorb heat via pressurized refrigerant lines and then transfer that heat into your home.

The heat produced by a gas furnace is typically hotter and drier. A gas furnace also continues to produce more and more heat, regardless of the outdoor temperature. In contrast, heat pump systems circulate naturally humid warm air that might not feel as hot. Heat pumps are extremely versatile as they also cool your home in the summertime. 

So which one is cheaper to run? Well, seeing as though a gas furnace needs to generate its own heat, it requires plenty of fuel, which can get costly. As the heat pump works by transferring existing heat, it requires a little amount of electricity to circulate the refrigerant through its pressurised lines, therefore making the heat pump more cost-effective.

Now that you know the benefits of having an energy-saving heat pump, it's something you will want to look out for when looking at properties. Luckily all of Futurdev Properties' developments come with energy-saving heat pumps already installed.

If you're looking for a full-title, freestanding cluster home in the most sought-after residential suburbs, a stone's throw away from Africa's richest square mile and largest business district and close to all major corporates; yet nestled by beautiful, picturesque greenery and nature, then Futuredev Properties has exactly what you're looking for.