As the Winter Solstice approaches and colder weather blankets much of the country, many people debate over the best heating source to warm their homes. They look for the benefits of furnaces over installing Heat Pumps Fort Wayne IN. Then there are other homeowners who try to find best ways of maintaining existing heat pump systems and conserve energy and costs. Below is some useful information that can guide heat pump operation, maintenance, or purchasing decisions.
Maintaining Heat Pump Systems
One of the essential things to do to sustain efficiency with a heat pump is to change or clean filters once a month. When a homeowner has not just dirty screens, but also filthy fans and coils, the result is a reduction of airflow within the system. Minimized airflow subsequently lowers the performance of the system and additionally harms its compressor.
A clean system affects energy costs as well. Research suggests that there is a 10% to 25% difference in energy consumption between a poorly neglected heating system and an adequately maintained one. One way to save energy is to run the thermostat on “auto” fan.
A heat pump should get serviced by a professional at least once a year. In repairing Heat Pumps Fort Wayne IN, a specialist can do the following:
• Seal and diagnose duct outflow
• Scope ducts, indoor coil, blower, and filters for debris, dirt, and other obstructions
• Measure appropriate airflow
Risks of Furnaces vs. Heat Pumps
Furnaces are commonplace in many U.S. homes. However, they present a dangerous risk for the ignition of a fire. Also, carbon monoxide (CO), which gets generated from burned natural gas and oil, poses a threat. Without proper ventilation, CO can get pumped in the air, displacing oxygen, and could cause brain damage, among other issues. While the risks of fire or CO emission does not exist with heat pumps, they too have disadvantages. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, many systems lack appropriately installed compressors, have erroneous refrigerant levels, and are comprised of faulty duct-work.
In Indiana, winters are windy and freezing. Climate is a significant factor when choosing a heat pump over a furnace, as one outperforms the other. Saving energy saves money. Therefore, maintenance of heat pump systems is vital. For installs or service, it is always best to contact an HVAC expert, like the specialists at Brockman Heating & Air Conditioning for help.
