Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps are a cost-effective and efficient solution for home heating and cooling. Understanding their operation can help you choose the right system for your needs.

 

The core principle of air source heat pumps is heat transfer. In winter, they extract heat from the outdoor air and bring it inside to warm your home. During summer, the process reverses, as the pump removes heat from your indoor air and releases it outside, cooling your home. This is achieved through a refrigerant that absorbs and releases heat as it circulates through the system.

 

An air source heat pump system comprises an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a network of refrigerant lines connecting the two. The outdoor unit houses a compressor, a condenser coil, and a fan, while the indoor unit contains an evaporator coil and a blower. The refrigerant flows between these components, carrying heat from the outdoor air to the indoor unit for distribution throughout your home.

 

Air source heat pumps offer both heating and cooling modes, making them versatile systems for year-round comfort. In heating mode, they draw heat from outside and transfer it inside. In cooling mode, they expel indoor heat to the outside. This dual functionality makes air source heat pumps an energy-efficient and eco-friendly choice for homeowners. Learn more about how heat pumps work.

Geothermal heat pumps use the stable temperature of the ground or water as a heat source or sink, offering high efficiency. Air source heat pumps, however, extract heat from the air. While geothermal systems generally provide better efficiency, air source heat pumps are more commonly used due to lack of requirements for installation compared to geothermal heat pumps.

Choosing the right heat pump for your home involves several key factors. The first step is performed when your local Carrier dealer determines your home's heating and cooling load, which involves calculating the heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Accurate load calculations ensure your heat pump is properly sized for your home.

 

Proper sizing is critical. A heat pump that's too small may struggle to maintain comfort, while an oversized unit may cycle frequently, leading to inefficiency. Factors to consider include your home's square footage, insulation levels, number of windows, and local climate. Consulting with a professional HVAC contractor can help you select a heat pump with the right capacity. 

 

Other important considerations include energy efficiency, noise levels, and additional features. Look for heat pumps with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER2) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factors (HSPF2) for better efficiency. Consider the noise level, especially if the unit will be near living spaces.  Rebates and federal tax credits may make your purchase more affordable. 

Electrification refers to the process of replacing fossil fuel or natural gas burning equipment with similar electric equipment, appliances, or systems such as Carrier heat pumps, Heat pumps can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 38-53% over a 15-year period and reduce 20-year global warming potential by 53-67% when compared to a gas furnace. Additionally, high-efficiency electric units can save homeowners on utility costs.

Carrier offers a range of air source heat pump systems designed for optimal comfort and efficiency. Our products are engineered for reliable performance and significant energy savings, helping you maintain a comfortable home while reducing energy consumption. Talk to your local Carrier dealer to find the perfect solution for your home.