How Do Heat Pumps Work in Essex, MD?

Heat pumps are growing in popularity in no small part thanks to their high efficiency and ability to both cool and heat your home. However, heat pump technology works a little differently than conventional HVAC systems. Learn more about how heat pumps work in Essex, MD.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

When installing a heat pump in your home, you’re bringing in a device that moves heat rather than creating it. A heat pump absorbs the air around it, holding on to the heat until you ask it to distribute it throughout your home using ductwork or release it outside.

Moving air requires significantly less energy than creating heat, which is why heat pumps are so energy efficient. Since the system utilizes the air around it, it’ll be the most efficient in a space with cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter.

Heat Pump Components

To better understand how heat pumps work, you should know the different components inside of the system. The main components in a heat pump include:

• Compressor: The main internal unit where the refrigerant consolidates.
• Condenser: Hot coils inside the compressor create hot air.
• Evaporator: The external unit where heat becomes absorbed, leaving cool air.
• Expansion valve: The device that determines pressure levels, indicating whether the system will heat or cool.

The heat pump operates based on the expansion valve setting. When in heating mode, pressure levels will be high. In cooling mode, pressure levels will be low. If your heat pump isn’t working as expected, you may need repair services.

Heat Pump Backup Fuel Source

Heat pumps work well in the Maryland climate. However, when the device needs a little extra support, heat pumps use a backup electrical fuel source. They can also work in conjunction with gas furnaces.

Are you ready to upgrade to a heat pump in your home? Contact Hughes Mechanical, LLC to schedule an installation in Essex, MD.

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