Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning Blog

Heat Pumps

Chances are that you don’t need us to point out just how hot the weather is at this point. It’s going to be a while yet before temperatures begin to cool off, so hopefully you have a reliable and effective air conditioning system in place. If you’ve come to realize that your system just won’t cut it for the rest of the season, or if your AC has broken down entirely, though, we are happy to handle your replacement services.

One option that we often urge homeowners to consider is the heat pump. There are many benefits that you can enjoy as a result of using a heat pump in Fort Collins, CO. Read on, and contact us with any questions that you may have. 

Why Choose a Heat Pump

Right now, the heat is on everyone’s mind. It’s pretty much impossible to ignore temperatures as hot as we’re experiencing right now. The good news is that you can effectively cool your home using a heat pump. In fact, heat pumps operate in much the same manner as more traditional split central air conditioners. Why, then, opt for this type of system? Because unlike a traditional split air conditioner, a heat pump can reverse its operation.

During the winter season, when temperatures plummet below comfortable levels, you can use a heat pump in order to draw heat out of the air outside. The warm refrigerant is then further compressed, and its thermal energy is used in order to heat the interior space of your home. This is an incredibly efficient way in which to heat your home, as the heat pump does not actually have to consume fuel to generate heat. Instead, the heat transfer process is utilized.

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

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As energy costs continue to soar, and more and more homeowners look for more and more efficient ways in which to heat their homes, the heat pump has really grown in popularity. A question that many homeowners have regarding heat pumps, though, is simply whether or not these systems are really effective enough to bother investing in. While it is true that older heat pumps may have struggled in very cold weather, modern systems are more reliable than ever before. Consider the following information before deciding if you’d like to use a heat pump in Fort Collins, COIf so, just give Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning a call to schedule service.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

A heat pump is able to function as both a heater and an air conditioner due to its ability to reverse its refrigerant cycle. During the summer, it acts just like an AC, drawing heat out of the air in your home and venting that air outside. In the winter, the refrigerant in the system absorbs heat from the air outdoors, even when it is very cold out. That refrigerant is then compressed, boosting the thermal energy, and this energy is used to heat air for distribution throughout your house.

While this operation results in great energy efficiency, as only a small amount of electricity is used in the heating of one’s home, heat pumps have been known to struggle in extremely cold temperatures. However, we do advise that you consider the use of such systems, and for two reasons. First of all, we simply don’t live in an area where we are dealing with subzero temperatures regularly. Secondly, modern heat pumps are no more reliable than ever before, able to produce dependable heating even when the temperature really plummets.

Are There Any Other Options?

While today’s heat pumps are a good match for our winter weather, we understand that many homeowners are always going to want a bit of extra security. That is why we also offer hybrid heating systems. Such systems feature both a furnace and a heat pump, with the furnace firing up only in the event that the heat pump is struggling to produce sufficient heating for your home. Contact us with any questions that you may have.

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There are a lot of reasons to consider using a heat pump in order to keep your home comfortable. These systems are very efficient, quite reliable, and offer homeowners the convenience of both heating and cooling their homes with just one system. As great as heat pumps are, though, you must remember that there is no such thing as a perfect or 100% reliable mechanical system. At some point, you are going to encounter operational problems of some sort with your heat pump. When you do, we recommend that you contact a member of our team immediately. The sooner that any necessary heat pump repairs in Fort Collins, CO are completed, the better off your system is likely to be. Give Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning a call if you notice any sign of trouble. 

  • Reduced Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are renowned for the efficiency with which they heat homes. Existing heat is utilized in the process, so only a very small amount of energy is required. Heat pumps cool homes quite efficiently as well, though, so any drop in efficiency levels should be considered cause for concern. If the cost of running your heat pump spikes with no obvious cause, you may have a problem requiring professional repair services.
  • Stuck in a Mode: Your heat pump uses a component called the reversing valve in order to reverse the flow of its refrigerant cycle. If your system is not switching over from its heating to cooling mode, or vice versa, the reversing valve could be damaged. This is a major problem, obviously, so contact us as soon as you realize your system won’t switch operating modes.
  • Icing: When you run an air conditioning system, you may not give the development of ice much thought. After all, you are using that system to cool your home, right? Well, the problem with this is that your AC, heat pumps included, should never develop ice. This is not a sign that the system is really working in order to cool your home. Instead, it could bet the result of poor airflow, refrigerant leaks, or other problems.
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As you can imagine, there is really no single air conditioning system which will perfectly suit every home, nor will every homeowner be looking for the same things when considering their air conditioning options. If you are looking for a new air conditioner in the Fort Collins, CO area, though, we’d like to make a friendly suggestion: consider the installation of a heat pump on your property. They offer a few benefits that other residential cooling systems cannot match. This is due largely to their unique design and method of operation. Read the information below, and call Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule your heat pump services.  

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

Heat pumps share much in common with more traditional split central air conditioning systems. They use an outdoor unit, which contains the compressor, and distribute cooled air throughout the house via a system of air ducts. During the summer, as you use your heat pump to cool your household, there is actually very little difference between its operation and a central AC. Refrigerant absorbs heat from the air in the house, and vents it outside. However, during the winter season, the heat pump really sets itself apart.

You see, a component called a reversing valve actually allows a heat pump to reverse its operation. The refrigerant cycle is reversed, and the refrigerant now absorbs heat from the air outside. This warmed refrigerant is further compressed, and that heat is used to heat air for distribution throughout the household.

Benefits of Using a Heat Pump

From the description above, you may think that  a heat pump’s greatest benefit is the fact that it is able to offer year round comfort. This is certainly a major benefit, but it is not the only one. Because no fossil fuels are used in order to heat the house, and only a small amount of electricity is needed to facilitate the heat transfer process, a heat pump allows homeowners to heat their homes effectively with incredible energy efficiency. Give us a call today if you think that a heat pump is the right cooling – and, of course, heating – option for your home.

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When functioning properly, a heat pump is capable of effectively cooling a home, as well as of heating it with outstanding energy efficiency. With that being said, of course, there is simply no way in which you can hope for your heat pump to function at peak performance and efficiency levels if you do not schedule routine heat pump maintenance in Wellington. There is no other way in which you can count on getting the very best performance that a heat pump has to offer. Fortunately for you, the professional heat pump maintenance technicians here at Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning are never more than a phone call away.

One of the most important ways in which our technicians can keep your heat pump healthy is to clean it thoroughly during our routine maintenance services. There are a couple of reasons as to why doing so is so important. While it is true that heat pumps, which run on electricity, may not get as dirty as systems burning oil or other combustible fuels, the debris that accumulates within your system can take a toll. The grilles, ducts, heating elements, and fins of the heat pump should all be cleaned yearly to ensure proper functioning.

It is also vital that air passages around the heat pump are kept clean, which may require that a professional technician employ the use of vacuums, brushes, and other tools. Even if conditioned air is flowing from your ductwork, you must keep in mind the fact that your heat pump may be working harder than it should have to in order to make this the case. Excessive airflow resistance can really drive down efficiency levels, leaving you to pay more than you should have to when heating and cooling your home with such an efficient system.

Heat pumps work throughout the entire year in order to keep you comfortable. Show them the TLC that they need so that they can do so effectively and reliably. Prevent the buildup of dirt on electrical components or debris from reducing airflow. These are precisely some of the issues, among others, which will be addressed during heat pump maintenance in Wellington.

Schedule service with the experienced technicians at Fort Collins Heating & Cooling, and your heat pump will be cleaned and tuned up with the expertise and attention to detail that the job demands.

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Because heat pumps run year-round, it is likely that at some point your heat pump in Windsor, CO will need repair. This isn’t because your heat pump isn’t a sound device; it’s simply because heat pumps offer both heating and cooling, and as a result, operate twice as much as individual heating and cooling systems. There are some repairs that our Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning technicians see more than others, and to give you an idea of what these repairs are, we’ve listed them out below.

Common Heat Pump Repairs

It’s always recommended that your heating system be maintained and repaired by a trained technician, and your heat pump is no different. Here are some of the more common repairs you may see with a heat pump system:

Compressor Issues

The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant in your system. As such, it operates under a great deal of stress. Like your heat pump system, the compressor is made to work with an exact amount of refrigerant. Should the refrigerant level be too low or too high, the compressor can overwork and also overheat. Other common problems that can develop are issues with the capacitors and problems with the motor. The compressor can be complex and may require full replacement, so it’s best to have a professional handle all issues with your compressor.

Stuck Reversing Valve

The reversing valve is the component that allows your heat pump to offer both heating and cooling. The valve slides back and forth in order to change modes, but sometimes it can get stuck and won’t move. A reversing valve can become stuck in a specific mode (heating or cooling) or in between. Sometimes a reversing valve can be repaired, but sometimes it may need to be replaced.

Refrigerant Leaks

As mentioned above, there is a set amount of refrigerant in your system. Refrigerant facilitates the transfer of heat, so having the correct amount in your system is critical to operation. Refrigerant leaks can develop in a number of places, and finding a leak can be challenging. Additionally, refrigerant leaks can only be handled by certified technicians. Refrigerant leaks should be repaired right away as they can cause multiple problems for your system.

If you need heat pump repair in Windsor, CO, call the people you can count on: Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning.

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One of the major benefits of a heat pump system is that it provides both heating and cooling for your home. But when the temperature dips below 32 degrees, there can be some concern about an air-source heat pump being able to provide your home with enough heat. What are your options? Consider the installation of a hybrid heating system.

Why Is There Concern with a Heat Pump?

During the winter months, heat pumps absorb the available heat in the surrounding air, concentrate it and disperse it into your living spaces. However, as the air temperature cools, the amount of available heat in the air decreases, especially when the temperature dips below 32 degrees. When there is less available heat in the air, your heat pump may struggle or have to work harder to achieve your set temperature. But with a hybrid heating system, this isn’t a problem.

What Is a Hybrid Heating System?

A hybrid heating system uses a heat pump as its main source of heat, but has a gas furnace back-up for cold days. In a hybrid system, the heat pump is equipped with a sensor that monitors the outside temperature. At a pre-set temperature, which is typically a few degrees above freezing, the heat pump will automatically switch to the gas-furnace back-up. The switch is seamless, and works in conjunction with the dual-fuel thermostat in your home. There is also a pre-set temperature at which the system will switch back to the heat pump, so you don’t have to worry about having to switch the system manually at any stage.

Why Consider a Hybrid Heating System?

  • Keep the benefits of a heat pump – with a hybrid heating system, you keep the benefits of a heat pump, such as heating and cooling and great energy efficiency, without losing needed winter heating.
  • Convenience – the system’s automation allows you to enjoy the heat of your gas furnace or heat pump without needing manual assistance.
  • Never worry about having enough heat – with a hybrid heating system, you won’t have to worry about having enough heat, even on the coldest days of winter.

If a hybrid heating system in Loveland sounds like a good fit for you and your home, contact Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning today.

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A heat pump or hybrid heat pump takes care of your needs for comfort throughout the year: strong cooling during the summer, effective heating in the winter. But you can’t expect a heat pump to last forever, especially when you consider how much work it needs to perform throughout the year. Proper annual maintenance from a professional will help a heat pump last as long as possible, but eventually you will need to consider replacing it with a new system. We’re here to help you identify the warning signs that it’s time for a heat pump replacement in Loveland, CO.

You need an experienced team to handle the new heat pump installation.

You will find few companies with more experience in heat pump installation than Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ve served Northern Colorado with comfort since 1934.

Warning signs of an ailing heat pump

  • Reduced heating and cooling ability: Because a heat pump uses the same operation to work as a heater and an air conditioner, when it begins to fail, both modes will suffer. If you have a heat pump that is over older than 15 years, or if it has gone beyond its manufacturer’s expected lifespan, and it begins to struggle reaching the temperatures you set for it, then it’s time to call a professional to look into replacement options.
  • Elevated electrical bills: The heat pump probably uses more electricity per year than any other appliance in your home. When the heat pump reaches the point where it will no longer function as well as before, it will cause your electrical bills to begin to rise. If no amount of repairs can bring these bills down, it’s time to retire the heat pump.
  • Too many repair bills: Most home comfort systems require the majority of their repairs during the final two years of their service, so when the repairs for your heat pump start arriving on a regular basis, it’s a strong sign that the system is near its end. Look over your repair bills for the past year, and if they exceed $500, it is no longer worth the money to keep it running.
  • Noisy operation: A single odd sound from a heat pump can point toward a repair need. But when the heat pump starts to make more noise in general to do its job, with groaning, rattling, and other mechanical sounds, then you should have it checked to see if it needs replacement.

If you feel nervous about making a definitive choice about your heat pump, don’t worry: you can always call Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning and schedule an appointment with one of our NATE-certified technicians. Our staff will help you make the best choice. If it turns out that you need a heat pump replacement in Loveland, CO, trust to our experience to perform the job so you will have a system that will heat and cool your home for many years.

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Heat pumps are remarkable appliances for year-round comfort: in one system, you have both heating and cooling achieved through the same energy-saving method of heat exchange. Even if you live in a part of Colorado with extremely cold winters that might restrict the action of a heat pump during heating mode, you can always make use of a hybrid system that hooks up your heat pump to a backup heater so you’ll always have sufficient warmth no matter the temperature outside.

Like any home comfort system, a heat pump requires regular maintenance for it to keep working efficiently and effectively. You need to schedule two visits a year for it, one before the warm weather starts and one before the cold weather. We’ll look at the stages of heat pump maintenance a Wellington, CO system will undergo when it’s time for the summer preparation session.

To sign up for a maintenance program today, contact the NATE-certified team at Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer excellent Energy Savings Agreements, and have a track record stretching back to 1934 that speaks for itself.

What occurs during heat pump maintenance

  • Thermostat check: The technicians look over the thermostat to ensure that it is properly calibrated to read temperatures correctly and it is maintaining its connection to the heat pump.
  • Inspect the reversing valve: This is the critical component that differentiates a heat pump from an air conditioner, since it allows the heat pump to switch between heating and air conditioning modes.
  • Check on refrigerant level and pressure: The technicians will see that the right amount of refrigerant is in the system (and will fill it if it is not) and at the right pressure to avoid damaging the rest of the components.
  • Clean the indoor and outdoor coils: To prevent the coils from losing their heat absorption/releasing properties, the technicians will remove and clean both coils.
  • Check and clear the condensate lines: Heat pumps have two sets of condensate drainage lines, and the technicians must look over both to see that they are clear of any blockages.
  • Clean and lubricate the motors: The mechanical parts of the heat pump must be clean and well-lubricated to see that they do not undergo too much stress and threaten to overheat or become “fixed.”
  • Electrical systems check: The majority of heat pump repair troubles arise from errors in the electrical system, so the technicians make sure it is in good shape and will tighten any loose connections.
  • Test airflow: The technicians turn on the heat pump and use sensors to see that airflow is normal.

The technicians will not leave your home until they are certain that your heat pump is working its best or else they have helped you schedule any necessary repair work they have uncovered.

You can place your trust in Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning for your heat pump maintenance.

We take pride in the service our highly-trained technicians provide, and we offer superior customer service for all your needs for heating and cooling, all year long. Call us today!

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Late spring is a time when many people choose to have new installation of home comfort systems. Getting rid of an aging heater or air conditioner is one of the ultimate forms of “spring cleaning”; it makes for good planning to have the work done during this slower season for HVAC professionals and to prepare for the next period of extreme temperatures.

Among your options for spring air conditioning installation in Windsor, CO, you might have considered a ductless mini split heat pump. Perhaps you’re not sure if such a system will work for you, or what extra benefit you’ll receive. We’ll give you some pertinent information about ductless systems to help you with making a choice.

You will need professional assistance when choosing new installation. Call Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning, where we’ve helped heat and cool homes since 1924.

We’ll help you narrow down your choices and find out if a ductless mini split heat pump is your ideal system for this summer and the many after it.

What you need to know about ductless mini split installation

  • It may need assistance in winter: Although you will have summer on your mind when you have a heat pump installed in spring, keep in mind that heat pumps perform the dual function of cooling and heating. If you invest in a ductless system, you’re investing in year-round comfort. Because heat pumps can struggle during extremely low winter temperatures, you may need to have a hybrid system installed with a backup furnace that uses natural gas or propane. All the cautions regarding a heat pump also apply to a ductless system.
  • It works bests for new construction and old homes: If you already have a ventilation network in your home, a ductless mini split may not be the right installation for you; a standard heat pump will hook up and work just as well. However, if you are building a new home, adding on a room, or live in an old home without room for ducts, then ductless mini split heat pumps are often the best of all choices. Bypassing ducts saves you space and allows you to put in an air conditioning system far more powerful than a window unit.
  • It offers zone control: This is one of the major advantages of ductless mini split heat pumps: you can control the temperature separately around the house. Since ductless systems use blower units mounted on walls to send air directly into rooms, you can control which rooms receive cool air (or warm air), You don’t need to cool down rooms that no one is using, which will add up to large savings on your utility bills.

Our air experts in air conditioning installation in Windsor, CO will help you decide if a ductless system will do the job for your home. Whatever system you decide to install this spring, let Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning handle the hard work for you.

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