It’s the time of year again when heating our homes becomes extra essential. As snow falls, ice forms and temperatures drop—there’s no denying it’s getting cold outside. What’s more, it’s set to get a whole lot colder.
The Ontario winters can be severe. This is why it’s crucial that homes here have a reliable and effective heating system. In recent years, many local families have been opting to install a heat pump in Kitchener homes.
A relatively new form of heating system—over here at least—heat pumps are becoming more and more popular in homes across Canada. But what are they, exactly? This guide will break down the basics of a heat pump and let you see whether it could be a good option for you and your home.
What Is A Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a type of heating and cooling system for a home. Depending on your needs, it works by taking energy from one source and using that energy to either heat or cool a home. There are several different types of heat pumps
air-to-air
water source
geothermal
Geothermal heat pumps pull heat from the ground, while water source heat pumps do the same from water. However, the air-to-air heat pump is the most popular type of heat pump and the one we’ll be talking about today.
This heat pump uses recycled air from outside to heat the air inside the home. Heat pumps have both indoor and outdoor components so that they can access the outside air.
Many people choose heat pumps because they are energy-efficient, especially compared to other heating systems. A heat pump usually produces three to four units of heat per every unit of electricity it consumes. Meanwhile, many other heating systems cannot make more heat than that contained in their fuel source.
How Does a Heat Pump Warm a Home?
So, how does a heat pump work, exactly? The mechanism is relatively simple and quite similar to something else you may already have in your home.
The mechanism by which a heat pump works is the exact same as that of a refrigerator. A heat pump uses a compressor to draw heat from low-temperature sources, such as external air. It is then distributed throughout the home.
A heat pump can be used in tandem with a furnace if needed. Both ducted and ductless heat pumps are available, depending on your needs. Most heat pumps are relatively quiet devices with low ambient noise.
Looking for a Heat Pump in Kitchener?
Hopefully, the above article has helped you answer any questions about how a heat pump works. If you’re interested in installing a heat pump in Kitchener, then we’d be happy to talk you through the process. Get in touch with a team member today to see what kind of system could be a good fit for your home.