Heat Pump v Air Conditioning

3 Factors to Consider: Which System is Right for You?

Heat pumps and air conditioning units are both a great choice, but are dependent on the circumstances at hand. One might be more appropriate for your home or place of business depending on certain factors. Here are three general factors to consider when choosing between a heat pump or air conditioning system.

1) Cost to Purchase & Install

When it comes to the heat pump system, the cost is lower when the unit is indoors. However, the outdoor unit can come with a higher upfront cost compared to an air conditioner. It is important to understand the total costs involved in the installation. When you work with NorWest, we can provide you with an estimate for the installation and give you a path forward into making a decision. And walk you through which one may heat or cool your home properly.

2) Energy Efficiency

When the outdoor temperatures begin to lower, a heat pump system provides more energy efficient heating using only electricity. In these types of conditions, a heat pump can be less costly to operate when you compare it to systems that use more expensive heating fuel sources. Oil, propane and natural gas are all heating fuel sources that are typically more expensive than electricity. On top of that, electricity is more eco-friendly.

However, when the temperatures drop below freezing, the heat pump will need more energy to maintain comfort inside. Thus reducing the efficiency while increasing your electric bill. Many homeowners solve this problem by pairing a heat pump with a furnace and creating a hybrid system. This may be a more expensive option when comparing it to an air conditioner and a furnace.

When in cooling mode, both heat pumps and air conditioners come in models that provide great energy efficiency when cooling during the hot summer months. They also offer high SEER2 ratings, which are like miles-per-gallon for a car and can give you a standard measure of efficiency so you can compare different models. For the most part, the higher the SEER2, the more efficient the unit. In heating mode, heat pump efficiency is expressed in terms of HSPF2. The higher the HSPF2, the higher the efficiency of the unit.

Ultimately, the energy efficiency and cost to operate factor usually comes down to it location. In areas with moderate temperatures, a heat pump is a better option for efficient heating than in areas with extremely cold winters. And of course, Energy Star^® certified models offer the highest efficiency around.

3) Longevity of System

The longevity of the system is important to consider. Of course there are many different variables to consider that impact the life expectancy of an HVAC system. With that said, in general, central AC units usually last longer than heat pumps. The reason for this is simple. Heat pumps are pulling double duty by heating and cooling a home at the same time, which means they are used all year long.

This differs from air conditioners, which get a break during the fall and winter in New York due to the fact a separate heat source is used to heat the home. But just because the longevity of the heat pump may be shorter, that lifespan is offset by the pump's ability to deliver efficient, money-saving heating during milder winter weather. And of course, regular maintenance or repair can keep both heat pumps and air conditioners running at maximum energy efficiency.

4) Size of Unit

Whether you are replacing an existing HVAC system for your home or purchasing one for the first time, there needs to be a determination of the size of the unit as well as its heating and cooling capabilities. In order to determine this, a proper evaluation of your home’s heating and cooling needs to happen. At NorWest, we can send over a trained HVAC professional to inspect your home and help you determine the best route forward. While doing so, we can help you decide between a heat pump vs AC system.

Contact NorWest

NorWest has years of experience working in this field and offers both heat pumps and air conditioning units. Get professional HVAC services with us throughout the greater New York City area, including Long Island, Connecticut, Westchester and the 5 boroughs of New York City, particularly Manhattan and Queens. For more information about our services, please contact us today.

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When you reach out, we can provide you with further details about our HVAC services. Get a fair and accurate estimate when you get in touch with us.

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