Heat Pumps versus Central Heating Systems – Which One is Right for You?
If you are building a new home or simply
updating the heating and air conditioning system in the one you
have, there are many options on the table for you. Central heating
and air conditions are one choice, then there are individual air
conditioning units, portable heaters, and of course, heat pumps.
Most people want a unit that offers temperature control in all of
their rooms, which leaves central systems and heat pumps as the most
likely options. But which one is the best choice?
The real answer to that question is that there is no answer. The
decision between central heating and cooling systems and heat pumps
comes down to several factors, and there is no one right choice for
everyone. Here are some pros and cons of each kind of system to
weigh up before you make your decision about which kind of system to
get.
First up, heat pumps: the most attractive thing about heat pumps for
many people is the cost. Heat pumps offer heating and cooling in one
single unit, which means that not only do you only have to shell out
for one single unit when it comes time to purchase the system but
you only have to maintain one single unit over the life of its use,
so the overall operating costs are lower. Likewise, heat pumps cost
less to operate on a daily basis. Heat pumps work with the existing
heat in the air, so there is no artificial heating or cooling of the
air was with central heating systems. Your electric bills will be
lower, and the impact on the environment is less as well.
There are some downsides to heat pumps, however. They are not for
people who live in places with temperature extremes. Most experts
recommend that people who live in environments with temperatures
that frequently go below 40 degrees in the winter or over 85 degrees
in the summer. Because the heat pump can only work by drawing heat
out of the air in the winter and pulling it out of your home in the
summer, it can’t work hard enough to keep up with those temperature
extremes.
If you live someplace with temperature extremes, then a central
heating and cooling system is the right choice for you. It can keep
up effectively with the temperature extremes and will keep you more
comfortable.
The downside to central systems is that they are more expensive. You
need a separate heating and cooling unit, which means a bigger cost
upfront and higher maintenance cost over the life of the system.
Because central systems artificially heat and cool the air, they are
more expensive to run on a daily basis.
You have to evaluate your individual needs before deciding which
system is right for you.
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
a great selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be
found on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube