Our climate is one of the best in the country for air-source heat pumps, since the winters are so mild. If you’re buying an air conditioner in the near future, consider these options and controls that will enhance indoor comfort and lower your energy bills. An air-source heat pump doesn’t use any fuel except a relatively small amount of electricity to bring in heat in winter and remove it from your home in the summer.
Heat pumps with one or more of these characteristics are ideal systems for our humid climate:
- Variable-speed air handler. Powered by electronically commutated motors (ECMs), variable-speed air handlers (or blowers) increase comfort year round while using less energy than standard single-speed motors. The ECM uses far less electricity and usually runs at a slower, near continuous speed. This offers superior air filtration and humidity control, while providing better air distribution in your home.
- Dual-Stage compressors. This feature is another energy-saver, since it adjusts compressor capacity to save electricity when your heating or cooling load is lower. This comes in quite handy during our mild Coastal Bend winters.
- Solar-ready. One of the best options when you’re buying a heat pump is to choose one that’s ready for solar power, especially if you plan to use solar energy in the future or have panels already. A heat pump with this option will cut your electric bill summer and winter.
- Heat pump thermostat. These thermostats are engineered to work specifically with heat pumps, helping you get the most efficient heating in the winter.
If you would like more information about buying a heat pump, please contact us at CCAC, Inc. We provide superior HVAC services for the Corpus Christi area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about buying a heat pump and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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