A heat pump or an Air Conditioner? This is a question that is almost as old as these two devices themselves. Well, today, this blog hopes to answer this question for you and give you a brief idea about what these 2 devices are all about.
What is the difference?
The most fundamental difference between the two is the nature of the work that they do. AC is a one-way system where it releases cool or cold, compressed air directly through the help of its condenser, etc. A heat pump on the other hand is a two-way street. This means that not only can it pump heat, it can also suck it in.
In other words, an AC will only cool the room or, if it is strong enough, the entire house. A heat pump on the other can both cool and heat the entire house or room it is fitted in. The systems in place in both the devices are pretty similar wherein they both have coils that heat up and disperse the heat outside while keeping indoors cool and comfortable.
Which is better?
Well, there is no straightforward answer to this question. This nuance mainly arises because ACs can also be fitted with furnaces and act as a solid heat pump replacement. However, if you did have to decide between the two, then which one should you opt for? The answer is dependent on 2 major factors.
- The climate of the area you live in
- Your budget
The climate is a major issue simply because it determines whether or not you need a heat pump. If you live in an area with a frigid winter like those in Alaska, then a heat pump is something that you have to have. Without it, you will essentially be facing an existential crisis.
On the other hand, in case you are living in an area with a mild winter, where it rarely ever even snows, then a heat pump is not something you need. So, going out of your way to buy one is pretty redundant, all things considered. As far as people living in arid regions are concerned, a heat pump will never be used for keeping the indoors warm. So, any old AC will do.
The budget is the other main factor at play here. As touched upon earlier, ACs with furnaces often perform the same function as a heat pump. So, if you are strapped for cash, then that is the way to go as heat pumps are on the expensive side of things.
With that being said, irrespective of whichever option you do go for, the device will need frequent servicing to keep it running for a long period. Well, in case you live in Palm Desert Heating and Air Conditioning needs are not something you need to worry about.
First Choice AC and Heating Inc is the one-stop solution for all heat pump repair in Palm Desert. When you come to us, you won’t ever contact any other heating services in Palm Desert, CA again. So what are you waiting for? Contact us today and get an obligation-free quote from us straight away!
