Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning Blog

Category: Heat Pumps

In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the heating and cooling industry, with heat pumps outselling traditional gas furnaces. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the benefits that heat pumps offer in terms of efficiency, sustainability, and overall comfort. AtFort Collins Heating & Air, we are excited to see this shift towards more eco-friendly and cost-effective heating solutions, and we’re here to help homeowners in the Fort Collins area make informed decisions about their HVAC systems.

Heat Pumps
 

Understanding the Difference

To appreciate the rise ofheat pumps, it’s essential to understand how they differ from traditional gas furnace heating systems. While both systems are designed to keep your home comfortable year-round, they operate in distinct ways:

  1. Heat Pumps: Unlike furnaces, which generate heat by burning fuel, heat pumps work by transferring heat from one place to another. In cold climates, they extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it indoors to warm your home. During the summer, the process is reversed, with heat pumps removing heat from indoors and releasing it outside to cool your home.
  2. Gas Furnaces:Gas furnaces, on the other hand, burn natural gas or propane to produce heat. This heat is then distributed throughout the home via ductwork and vents. While gas furnaces have long been a popular choice for heating, they are not as energy-efficient as heat pumps and rely on fossil fuels, contributing to carbon emissions.

Benefits of Heat Pump Technologies

The growing popularity of homes with heat pumps can be attributed to several key benefits they offer:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are significantly more energy-efficient than gas furnaces, especially in moderate climates like Fort Collins. By transferring heat rather than generating it.
  2. Environmentally Friendly: Heat pumps produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to gas furnaces, making them a greener choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. Reducing your carbon footprint can, promote sustainability and have a positive environmental impact on your community in Colorado.
  3. Versatility: Heat pumps offer both heating and cooling capabilities in a single system, eliminating the need for separate HVAC units. This versatility not only saves space but also simplifies maintenance and reduces overall operating costs.
  4. Consistent Comfort: Heat pumps provide consistent indoor comfort throughout the year, maintaining stable temperatures regardless of outdoor conditions. With advanced features like variable-speed compressors and zoning systems, you can customize your comfort preferences and enjoy optimal climate control in every room.

Our Commitment to Excellence

At Fort Collins Heating & Air, we are committed to helping our customers embrace the latest advancements in HVAC technology. Whether you’re interested in upgrading to a heat pump or need maintenance and repairs for your existing system, our team of experienced technicians is here to assist you every step of the way.

We offer a comprehensive range of heating and cooling services, including installation, maintenance, and emergency repairs, to ensure that your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient year-round. With our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to deliver reliable solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Join the Movement Towards Sustainable Heating

As heat pumps continue to outsell natural gas heating systems, homeowners have a unique opportunity to transition to more sustainable and cost-effective heating solutions. Whether you’re motivated by environmental concerns, energy bill savings, or simply a desire for greater comfort, now is the perfect time to explore efficient heat pump options for your home.

At Fort Collins Heating & Air, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this heating revolution, and we invite you to join us in embracing the future of home comfort.Contact us today to learn more about our heat pump installation services and discover how we can help you make the switch to a more efficient and eco-friendly HVAC system.

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In a world increasingly focused on sustainable living and reducing carbon footprints, homeowners seek innovative ways to power their homes efficiently while minimizing environmental impact. One of the most effective methods gaining popularity is the combination of heat pumps and solar energy systems. This powerful duo offers a clean, renewable, and cost-effective solution for heating and cooling homes. At Fort Collins Heating & Air, we’re passionate about advocating for sustainable practices and empowering homeowners to make eco-friendly choices. Let’s explore how pairing a heat pump with solar energy can revolutionize your home’s energy efficiency and environmental impact.

Understanding Heat Pumps and Solar Energy

Heat pumps are highly efficient HVAC systems that can both heat and cool your home. They work by transferring heat from one place to another using refrigeration powered by electricity. During colder months, they extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it inside, while in warmer months, they reverse the process to cool your home. This technology makes them exceptionally efficient, as they move heat energy rather than generate it.

Solar Energy: Clean and Renewable Power Source

Solar power energy harnesses the power of sunlight to generate electricity for your home. Solar panels, typically installed on rooftops or open areas, contain photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into usable electricity. This renewable energy source produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Namaste Solar

Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning has teamed up with Namaste Solar, the top-rated solar company in Colorado. We chose them as a referral partner because they have shared business ethics, they are local, employee owned and a best-in-class installer with a track record of quality with 12,000+ solar panel systems installed over 18 years in business. They have 4.8 out of 5 stars on Google and hundreds of reviews. You can engage in a no-pressure conversation with one of Namaste Solar’s non-commissioned advisors by calling 303.447.0300.

The Benefits of Combining Heat Pumps and Solar Energy

Energy Efficiency

Pairing a heat pump with solar energy creates a synergy that enhances overall energy efficiency. Solar panels generate electricity during the day, and can power appliances as well as charge a battery storage system to utilize power during peak times or in the event of power grid failure.  This alignment allows homeowners to utilize clean, renewable energy to power, reducing reliance on traditional grid electricity.

Cost Savings

By generating your electricity through solar panels, you can significantly reduce your reliance on utility-provided electricity. This translates to lower energy bills over time, especially when combined with the energy efficiency of a heat pump. While the initial investment in solar panels and a heat pump system may seem significant, the long-term savings on utility bills often outweigh the initial costs.

Environmental Benefits

The combination of the two contributes to a greener environment. By reducing dependency on fossil fuels for electricity and heating, homeowners can significantly decrease their carbon footprint. This environmentally conscious choice promotes a more sustainable future.

Energy Independence

Generating your electricity through solar panels provides a degree of energy independence. You become less reliant on the grid, making your home more resilient during power outages or fluctuations. This independence offers peace of mind, knowing that your home can continue running efficiently even during adverse conditions.

Different Types of Heat Pumps Available

Air-Source Heat Pumps

Air-source heat pumps are the most common type, extracting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it indoors to heat a home. These systems have traditionally been popular in moderate climates but with increased technology they are suitable for regions with colder winters too. They operate by absorbing heat from the outside air and distributing it inside using refrigerant coils. During the summer, they reverse the process to provide cooling.

Ground-source (Geothermal) Heat Pumps

Ground-source heat pumps, also known as geothermal heat pumps, utilize the relatively stable temperature of the ground or groundwater as a heat source in winter and a heat sink in summer. These systems involve buried loops of piping that circulate a fluid to absorb or release heat. While they typically have higher upfront installation costs, they offer exceptional efficiency and are ideal for regions with extreme temperature variations and properties with room to drill or lay down horizontal ground loops.

Water-Source Heat Pumps

Water-source heat pumps extract heat from a water source, such as a well, pond, or lake, to heat or cool a home. They function similarly to ground-source heat pumps but use water as the heat exchange medium instead of the ground. These systems are efficient and suitable for areas with access to a suitable water source.

Hybrid Heat Pumps

Hybrid heat pumps combine the efficiency of an air-source heat pump with a backup heating source, often a furnace or boiler. These systems automatically switch between the heat pump and the backup heating system based on outdoor temperatures, optimizing efficiency and performance.

Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps

Ductless mini-split heat pumps offer a flexible solution for homes without ductwork. These systems consist of an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and one or more indoor air-handling units. They allow for zone heating and cooling, providing personalized comfort and energy efficiency.

Each type of heat pump has its advantages and is suitable for different home setups and climate conditions. Understanding these variations can help homeowners choose the most suitable heat pump system to complement their solar energy setup, maximizing overall energy efficiency and comfort in their homes.

Pairing any of these heat pump types with a solar energy system can substantially enhance a home’s energy efficiency and sustainability, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources and contributing to a cleaner environment.

Considerations When Pairing Heat Pumps and Solar Energy

Home Suitability

Assessing your home’s suitability for solar panel installation is crucial. Factors such as roof orientation, shading, and available space play a role in determining the efficiency of a solar energy system. Additionally, ensuring your home’s insulation and energy efficiency are optimized will maximize the benefits of a heat pump and solar combination.

System Sizing and Integration

Properly sizing both the heat pump system and the solar energy system is essential for optimal performance. A professional assessment by experienced technicians can ensure that both systems are appropriately sized and seamlessly integrated into your home’s infrastructure.

Upfront Costs and Incentives

While the initial investment in a heat pump and solar energy system may seem daunting, various incentives, tax credits, and rebates are often available to homeowners. Researching available financial incentives can significantly offset the initial costs and make the transition to clean energy more affordable.

Conclusion

Pairing a heat pump with solar energy presents a compelling opportunity for homeowners seeking sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for heating and cooling their homes. At Fort Collins Heating & Air, we’re committed to helping homeowners embrace environmentally friendly practices while enhancing their comfort and savings. If you’re considering this clean energy solution for your home, our team of experts is here to guide you through the process, from system selection to seamless integration. Together, let’s create a cleaner, greener future for your home and the planet.

Contact Fort Collins Heating & Air today to learn more about how you can pair a heat pump and solar energy for a clean energy solution tailored to your home’s needs.

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As temperatures drop in Fort Collins, Colorado, homeowners should begin thinking about their heating systems. One common question that is frequently asked is, “When should I schedule my annual furnace check-up or tune-up?” This question is important because a properly maintained furnace is essential for a comfortable, secure, and energy-efficient home during the fall and winter months. Contrary to common belief, there’s more flexibility in the timing of your annual furnace maintenance than you might think. In this blog, we will explore why yearly furnace check-ups are vital, debunk some myths about timing, and emphasize the importance of ensuring it happens annually.

The Importance of Regular Furnace Maintenance

Annual furnace maintenance is a fundamental part of keeping your home comfortable and safe during the winter. Here’s why it’s crucial:

  1. Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, which translates to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact. An optimally functioning system requires less energy to produce the same amount of heat.
  2. Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your furnace. Addressing minor issues during a check-up prevents them from developing into major, costly repairs or necessitating a complete system replacement.
  3. Safety: A malfunctioning furnace can pose serious safety risks, including carbon monoxide leaks, gas leaks, and fire hazards. Annual check-ups allow professionals to inspect your system for potential safety concerns and address them proactively.
  4. Cost Savings: Although it may seem like an additional expense, investing in annual furnace maintenance can save you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of breakdowns and costly repairs.
  5. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your furnace has been professionally inspected and serviced provides peace of mind. You can trust that it will keep your home warm and safe throughout the winter season.

 

Furnace Maintenance Fort Collins, CO

The Myth: It Must Be a Specific Time

One common misconception is that furnace maintenance must occur at a specific time each year, often in the fall, before the heating season begins. However, this rigid belief doesn’t align with the reality of furnace maintenance. Here’s why it’s essential to debunk this myth:

Flexibility in Scheduling

The most crucial aspect of annual furnace maintenance is that it happens annually. The timing of the check-up is far more flexible than many people realize. In fact, you have several options for scheduling your annual furnace maintenance:

  1. Fall Season: Scheduling your annual furnace tune-up in the early fall is a popular choice because it allows you to prepare for the upcoming heating season. The weather is usually milder, and HVAC technicians are often less busy during this time.
  2. Springtime: Some homeowners opt for spring furnace maintenance to ensure that any wear and tear from the previous heating season is addressed. This way, your system is in excellent condition for the next winter.
  3. Anniversary Date: You might choose a specific date each year, such as the anniversary of your furnace’s installation or the start of the heating season, to schedule your annual check-up.

The Key: Consistency

It does not matter what type of furnace you have, the critical factor is the consistency of scheduling your annual furnace check-up. What’s essential is that one of our service technicians comes once a year to help maintain your furnace’s efficiency, safety controls, and longevity.

Benefits of Flexible Timing

The flexibility of scheduling your annual furnace check-up comes with several advantages:

  1. Convenience: You can choose a time that suits your schedule and doesn’t disrupt your daily routine.
  2. Availability: HVAC companies are generally less busy during the off-peak seasons, making it easier to secure an appointment that suits you.
  3. Proactive Maintenance: The most crucial aspect is that your furnace receives regular, proactive maintenance. This ensures that potential issues are addressed early, preventing complicated repairs, furnace system breakdowns, and safety hazards.
  4. Cost Control: By having your furnace maintained annually, you can budget for the expense and avoid the risk of unforeseen repair costs.
  5. Personalization: The flexibility of timing allows you to tailor your maintenance schedule to your specific needs and preferences. Some like to be prepared before cold weather hits, others like to wait until the warmer months.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no bad time for annual service. The timing of your annual furnace checkup is more flexible than commonly believed. While certain times may be popular, it does not apply to everyone. What’s most important is the consistency of scheduling it once a year. By following these steps, you can ensure that your furnace remains efficient, safe, and reliable throughout the cold winter months ahead.

Don’t let other’s opinions dictate the well-being of your furnace. Schedule your annual furnace check-up with Fort Collins Heating & Air, and enjoy the flexibility of maintaining your heating system when it works best for you. Contact one of our qualified technicians today to set up your annual maintenance service and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable during the winter.

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Heat Pump Loveland CO

A heat pump could be an excellent investment if you’re looking to save money on energy bills. Heat pumps are an efficient way to control your home’s temperature and ensure you’re comfortable no matter the season. Not only are they good for the environment, but they can also save you money over time. Learn more about the pros and cons of investing in a heat pump in Loveland CO so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not it’s right for you.

The Benefits of a Heat Pump

A heat pump transfers heat energy from a heat source to a “heat sink.” They are designed to work in both heating and cooling modes. In the heating mode, the heat pump moves heat from the lower temperature to the higher temperature. In the cooling mode, the heat pump moves heat from the higher temperature to the lower temperature.

If you’re considering whether or not to invest in a heat pump, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. On the plus side, heat pumps are very efficient, can save money on energy bills, and are much better for the environment than traditional heating and cooling systems. Here are some of the other benefits of heat pumps:

  • They can heat and cool your home: A heat pump can be used for heating and cooling, which means you only need one system to keep your home comfortable all year round.
  • They’re very efficient: Heat pumps are much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems because they move heat rather than generate it. It means that they use less energy, which saves you money on your energy bills.
  • They’re good for the environment: Heat pumps don’t release harmful emissions into the atmosphere, so they’re much better for the environment than traditional systems.
  • They last long: With proper heat pump installation and maintenance, a heat pump can last for many years – up to 20 years or more. It makes them a wise investment for your home.

The Disadvantages of a Heat Pump

The most significant disadvantage of a heat pump is that it doesn’t work as efficiently at cooling your home as a traditional air conditioner does. That’s because it is designed to work best when heating rather than cooling. A heat pump will cycle on and off to maintain room temperature, but it won’t blow cold air into your home like an AC. However, if you live in a multi-level or detached home without central air, this may not be such an issue.

Are heat pumps worth it?

Heat pumps are an excellent choice for anyone looking to save on energy bills. But before you decide to invest in a heat pump, you should know what exactly makes them so cost-effective.

A heat pump will reduce your heating bills, decrease your carbon footprint and help contribute to a greener environment. The heat pump technology will save you money and do something good for the environment.

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Gas Furnace Loveland CO

Heating systems are essential to your home, yet many people don’t know the difference between a heat pump and a gas furnace. Making the right decision for your home depends on several factors, from budget to energy efficiency. Learn more about the differences between gas furnaces and heat pumps, and explore which is better for your home.

What Is A Heat Pump?

This device transfers heat from one place to another such as from inside a building to the outside or vice versa. In the summer, a heat pump can be used by you to cool a building by moving heat from the inside to the outside. In the winter, a heat pump can be used by you to heat a building by moving heat from the outside to the inside.

What Is A Gas Furnace?

A gas furnace is a system that uses natural gas to heat your home. Furnaces are typically used in areas where natural gas is readily available. Gas furnaces are also generally more efficient than other heating systems, making them a popular choice for many homeowners in Loveland, CO.

Pros and Cons of a Heat Pump or a Gas Furnace

There are pros and cons to both gas furnaces and heat pumps. Gas furnaces are typically less expensive to operate than heat pumps, but heat pumps are more efficient and can be used in all climates.

Gas furnaces require a constant supply of natural gas or propane, which can be expensive in some areas. Heat pumps can use electricity or fossil fuels, making them more versatile. Heat pumps can provide cooling and heating in warm climates, making them a more versatile option overall.

A heat pump is considered to be the more technologically advanced option. In addition to providing better efficiency and cost savings, they can also help with your energy bill if you want to go green. They are more expensive than gas furnaces but tend to last longer and require less heat pump repair.

A gas furnace is a traditional option that is still popular today. You can get a good deal on furniture when you shop for the best prices. Gas furnaces also have a longer lifespan than heat pumps, so you won’t have to call the Gas Furnace Service to replace them as often. They are easy to install and use, but they have some disadvantages as well:

They are typically less efficient than a heat pump, so you’ll have to keep up with replacing the filters more often.

They do not work very well in cold climates, so if you live in an area where it gets icy during the winter, this will be a problem for you.

Which is better?

There is no definitive answer to the question of which type of heating system is better for specific situations. Some factors that may influence your decision include the climate in your region, the efficiency of the unit, and the upfront cost.

A heat pump may be the best choice if you live in the Loveland, CO, region with a mild climate. Heat pumps are very efficient and can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. However, they can be more expensive to purchase and install than a gas furnace.

If you live in a region with a colder climate, a gas furnace may be the better option for you. Gas furnaces are less efficient than heat pumps but are less expensive to purchase and install.

Whether to install a heat pump or gas furnace is ultimately up to the homeowner’s individual needs and budget. Heat pumps are more efficient than gas furnaces but may not be suitable for cold climates. Gas furnaces can provide reliable heating in colder temperatures at an affordable price, but they come with higher operating costs. Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for you and your home, given your climate and budget restrictions.

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Heat Pump

It may seem strange to think about heat pump maintenance when we are in the midst of summer, but colder weather is just around the corner. And, as any HVAC professional will tell you, it is always best to be proactive regarding your home’s comfort and heating system.

We’ve got you covered whether you need to schedule a tune-up for your heat pump or an AC tune-up in Loveland, CO. This article discusses the importance of getting a tune-up now to counteract the strain on your system that summer typically causes.

 

The Benefits of Scheduling a Tune-Up Now

 

Most people aren’t currently thinking about winter. But, we all know that the worst thing you can do for AC or heater is to wait until it messes up to call in a professional. Instead, regular maintenance will keep you comfortable no matter the season.

 

Professionals and Parts are Available Now

 

Since the demand for any heat pump parts is currently low, there’s a good chance that any repairs you need will get done quickly.

 

Systems Wear Down Over Time

 

Everything has a shelf-life, including your HVAC system. The harder it works, the quicker it could be wearing down—especially if you’re not performing regular maintenance on it. The best way to handle any issues is to prevent the issues from happening in the first place.

 

Maintenance Is More Than Just Changing a Filter

 

When a professional comes in, they aren’t simply changing a filter (though that is something you should make sure to do a few times a year!). Instead, they have a laundry list of tasks to take care of, such as:

 

  1. Test and evaluate overall system operation.
  2. Clean/replace filters.
  3. Record operating temperature/pressure.
  4. Record amperage draw.
  5. Clean condenser coil.
  6. Inspect condensate drain pan and line, clean as needed.
  7. Lubricate moving parts.
  8. Check all electrical connections and components.
  9. Check vents and ducts for leaks or lack of airflow.

…and that’s just a partial list.

 

If Something Is Wrong With Your Heater, a Professional Will Notice It

 

Another great reason to start your fall and winter maintenance now is that a professional will also recognize any potential issues with your heater. Avoid surprises and sit comfortably all year long.

 

It’s Always Nice to Save Money

 

Perhaps the biggest benefit of scheduling maintenance is the potential cost savings. Not only will you save by avoiding a bigger repair, but the more efficient system can save you on your monthly electric and/or gas bill. Savings that can be put toward other things—like maybe the holidays!

 

Safety First

 

Of course, safety for you and your family is always on top of your mind. It’s not a fun topic to discuss, but when maintenance is ignored for too long on HVAC systems, it can become dangerous for those in the home. Instead, schedule your heating maintenance and keep everyone safe.

Contact Fort Collins Heating today for services provided by the company you can trust.

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heat pump

Now is the time when you might want to reconsider your home’s HVAC system. If you’re thinking about a heat pump, then we’re here today to walk you through your options. There are so many ways a heat pump can help you. We’ll get into them below.

When deciding if a Heat Pump is a good fit for your home it is best to have a professional help to determine your needs concerning a heat pump in Fort Collins, CO. This is the only way to ensure that you’re benefiting from all the advantages that a heat pump has to offer. Not only can we help in this decision, we can also make sure that your return on investment is maximized and your impact on the environment is minimized.

The Benefits of Heat Pumps

There are so many ways that a heat pump can help you. Here are a few of the things that you can expect to experience with the following benefits:

  • Efficiency: Heat pump technology has advanced greatly in recent years and are now efficient down to much lower temperatures than ever before making them more desirable in colder climates than before.
  • Energy Savings: When compared to heating with straight resistive electric heat such as baseboard, you can expect a modern heat pump to be 4 to 5 times more efficient.  When compared to heating with a Liquid Propane (LP) furnace, switching to a Heat Pump system can reduce your operation cost by 30% or more.  When compared to Natural Gas a heat pump may not make sense yet from purely an energy savings or return on investment at this time taking into consideration current Natural gas costs vs electric cost unless you have solar power to offset.
  • Eco Friendly Operation: If you are one that is motivated to move away from fossil fuels and move towards “renewable” energy that leans more on solar, wind and electric grid power, then a Heat Pump is definitely for you.

Running a Heat Pump with Solar Power

If you have solar power on your home already or are considering adding it to the degree that you are able to produce enough power to contribute to the operation of a heat pump you may likely be able to heat and cool your home for pennies.

But before you choose solar power, it’s important to consider the following:

  • Can you install enough panels positioned effectively enough to generate enough power to get a reasonable return on your investment.
  • Fixed position solar panels mounted on roofs are far less efficient than solar panels used on solar farms that can track the sun all day.
  • Having abundant solar power generated that exceeds your use and feeds back into the grid when not being used may no longer earn you a credit back like it once did as power companies are finding it more costly to manage than its worth to buy back from homeowners. So it may be wise not to factor that into a payback model.

Once you determine all these factors along with our help you will be able to make a wise decision for your home.  Combining a heat pump along with solar panels may bring the best of both worlds. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, we are happy to help you determine what is the best option for you.

Fort Collins Heating & Air…”Big Enough to Serve, Small Enough to Care.”

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Heat Pump

Winter in Colorado is something that most of us look forward to. It’s a lot easier to get out there and enjoy the season—and the slopes—when you’ve got a nice, warm, cozy home to come back to at the end of the day. If you’re thinking about replacing your old heating system, or you need to decide on a heater for a brand new home, you should definitely consider a heat pump installation in Fort Collins, CO.

The heat pump differs from more standard heating systems in a few ways. The good news? They’re beneficial ways! Just remember that getting the best that any heating system has to offer means scheduling your heating system installation, repair, and maintenance services with trained professionals. You’re reading this, so you’re well on your way to doing so. Whatever heating services you may need, our technicians are the ones to trust when you need the job done right!

Two Systems in One

Let’s get the big one out of the way first. Heat pumps are great heaters. But they’re not just heaters. They’re air conditioners, too.

No, we’re not pulling your leg. Heat pumps are able to reverse their operation in order to provide both heating and cooling. How is this possible? Thanks to a component called a reversing valve,  which allows you to reverse the refrigerant flow in the system.

AC Fundamentals

To really understand how heat pumps work, you need to understand how air conditioning works. ACs cool homes by evaporating refrigerant in the indoor coil. That refrigerant absorbs heat out of the air, and that heat is released outside as the outdoor coil condenses the refrigerant.

By reversing this heat transfer process, your heat pump can evaporate refrigerant in the outdoor coil. In doing so, the system can absorb heat from the air outside and use it to heat the interior of your home! It condenses the refrigerant in the indoor coil when in its heating mode, flipping the whole process!

What This Means for Cost

Great news here, too. Not only does your heat pump give you the convenience of heating and cooling in one package, but it also heats with incredible energy efficiency. You’re not generating new heat by using electric resistance or burning fuel when you use a heat pump. Instead, you’re transferring existing heat into your home. The system just uses some electricity in order to run and compress the refrigerant to boost its thermal energy.

Take Advantage of Heat Pump Technology Today!

Our team is happy to help you decide if a heat pump is right for your home. We offer both standard air-source heat pumps and ductless mini split heat pumps for installation, so we’re certain to find the perfect system for your needs and personal preferences. Let us know if you’re ready to start saving money while living comfortably through our fun winter seasons.

Schedule your heat pump services with Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning. Big enough to serve, small enough to care.

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heat pump

If you use a heat pump to keep your home warm and cozy throughout the coldest time of the year, then we certainly hope that it is meeting—nay, exceeding!—your expectations so far this winter. If this is not the case, then don’t just tell yourself that you’ll deal with the problem once the winter season has come to a close. You wouldn’t limp along the last few miles of a marathon with a sprained ankle just because it wasn’t actually broken, right?

While your heat pump may be up and running, the problems it is experiencing may still indicate that there is a serious issue in need of attention. Failing to give those issues the attention they need straightaway could result in serious damages to your system, as well as a slew of other issues including reduced energy efficiency and subpar heating output. So read on, keep these potential issues in mind, and remember that our technicians can determine the precise nature of the problem with your heat pump in Wellington, CO.

Specific Problems That Your Heat Pump Might Face

  • There’s ice on my heat pump! Well, it is winter, so there’s likely going to be ice all over the place, right? Well, maybe, but your heat pump should not be encased in it. Make sure that your heat pump is not poorly located right beneath dripping water from window eaves or anything like that. If not, remember that some icing is actually normal, which is why the heat pump has an automatic defrost cycle. If the system is becoming encased in ice, though, give us a call ASAP!
  • My system is running in short bursts! Well, at least it’s still heating the house, just in an erratic manner.  That can’t be too bad, right? That depends on how you view excessive wear and tear and increased heating costs with reduced efficiency. We’re guessing, through that lens, you’d call it “pretty bad.” You may just need to replace a very dirty air filter that is causing the system to overheat by reducing airflow.  This can actually cause the icing mentioned earlier, too. However, there is onr more problem that can be blamed for such issues, and it’s a doozy …
  • Your heat pump is leaking refrigerant! Well, it might be, anyway. Refrigerant leaks can cause icing, short cycling, reduced efficiency, and a drop in heating output, which means that any such problem should be taken seriously, even if the actual cause is not that serious. Why? Because running a system with a refrigerant leak for too long can, without exaggeration, actually destroy the system. Don’t ignore any potential signs of refrigerant leaks.

Get the Heat Pump Performance  That You Deserve

Ultimately, you shouldn’t have to use fear as a motivator to have your heat pump repaired promptly. This is your heating system, and it is integral to your comfort. That alone is cause enough for concern when even “minor” issues develop.

Schedule your heat pump services with Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning—the company you can trust.

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Heat Pump Problems

The heat pump is becoming a more and more popular option among homeowners in the market for new HVAC systems. It is not hard to understand why, considering heat pumps can function as effective air conditioners and also as highly efficient heating systems. What is a bit harder to understand for some users, however, is how this is even possible. The answer is that a heat pump is able to reverse its refrigeration cycle.

Because the refrigerant in these systems serves such an important purpose in both the heating and cooling process, it should be obvious that any issues with the refrigerant in the system are a serious problem. Refrigerant is not consumed by a heat pump, but rather operates in a closed loop and is just cycled through the system over and over. That means that low refrigerant levels indicate a leak, and that could spell big trouble for your heat pump in Loveland, CO.

 

How the Refrigerant Cycle Works

Refrigerant is such a great heat transfer fluid because it changes with ease from a liquid to a gas and back again. When cooling a home, refrigerant is evaporated in the indoor or evaporator coil. In a central AC this coil always performs this function, but heat pumps are able to flip the operation. As the refrigerant evaporates it absorbs heat from the air passing over the coil. Then it heads outdoors.

There, in the condenser coil, the refrigerant is condensed. This allows it to release its heat. The process is simply repeated over and over until the desired temperature is met. A heat pump can reverse the direction the refrigerant flows in, evaporating it outdoors and compressing it in order to heat a home. The warm refrigerant is then condensed in the indoor coil, which allows it to release its heat for use throughout the house.

Spotting Refrigerant Leaks

Have you noticed that your energy costs are starting to spike even though you haven’t been using your system any more than is normal? Is it taking longer and longer for your heat pump to adjust temperatures to the desired level, causing it to work much harder than it should have to? Is your system running in short bursts, overheating and short cycling? If so, then you may well have a refrigerant leak.

You may actually be able to hear refrigerant escaping from your refrigerant lines, as the pressurized gas can cause a hissing sound as it escapes the system. In the winter, your heat pump may ice over if refrigerant is low as well, and you may simply not be comfortable in your home.

Forcing your heat pump to run with a low refrigerant charge does not just result in decreased comfort and increased usage costs. It can also result in irreparable damage to the compressor. In that event, you’re likely going to be looking at a full replacement. If you suspect that you have a refrigerant leak, contact Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning right away.

Big enough to serve, small enough to care.

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