An air heat pump {Luftvärmepump} is a type of mechanical device that transfers heat from one place to another by using compression and decompression of air. It is similar in function to a refrigerator or an air conditioner but can also be used to heat a building. Air heat pumps are used in both residential and commercial settings.
How do Air Heat Pumps work?
Air heat pumps work by transferring heat from the outside air into your home. In the summer, the process is reversed, and the pump moves heat from your home into the outside air. This cycle is repeated over and over again to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home year-round.
There are two main types of air heat pumps: ducted and ductless.
Ducted Air Heat Pumps:
Ducted air heat pumps are made up of two parts: an external unit and an inside unit. The compressor and condenser coils are housed in the outside unit. The air handler and evaporator coils are located within the interior unit.
The compressor circulates the refrigerant throughout the system. As the refrigerant moves through the condenser coils, it picks up heat from the ambient air. The compressed refrigerant is subsequently delivered to your home’s evaporator coils.
The refrigerant picks up heat from the air in your house as it travels through the evaporator coils. The cycle then repeats itself, with the newly heated refrigerant being returned to the outside unit.
Ductless Air Heat Pumps:
Ductless air heat pumps work in a similar way to ducted systems, but they do not require ductwork. Instead, they have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are mounted on the wall.
The outdoor unit contains the compressor and the condenser coils. The indoor units contain the evaporator coils. The compressor pumps refrigerant through the system. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the outside air as it passes through the condenser coils. The refrigerant is then compressed and sent to the evaporator coils inside your home.
As the refrigerant passes through the evaporator coils, it absorbs heat from your home’s air. The now-warm refrigerant is then sent back to the outdoor unit, where the cycle starts all over again.
The Pros of Air Heat Pumps:
There are many advantages to using an air heat pump in your home. Some of the most notable benefits include
-Lower energy bills: Air heat pumps are very efficient and can help you save money on your energy bills.
-Environmentally friendly: Air heat pumps do not release any harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
-Durable: Air heat pumps are built to last and require very little maintenance.
The Cons of Air Heat Pumps:
There are also some drawbacks to using an air heat pump in your home. Some of the most common problems include:
-Noisy: Air heat pumps can be noisy, especially when they are first turned on.
-Requires regular maintenance: Air heat pumps require regular maintenance in order to keep them running properly.
-Sensitive to temperature changes: Air heat pumps can be sensitive to temperature changes and may not work as well in extremely cold or hot weather.
Which One Is Right for You – The Pros or Cons?
The decision of whether or not to use an air heat pump in your home is a personal one. There are pros and cons to using an air heat pump. You will need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages in order to decide if an air heat pump is right for you.
