Looking for a way to keep your house cool? You may find yourself trying to decide between a heat pump or an air conditioner. Both devices share a lot of similarities- primarily, they both serve as a way to keep your house cool. However, there are a few differences between the two that are worth considering when trying to decide which is right for your house.
Heat pumps can heat your house as well as cool
While an air conditioner can cool your house, for the most part, they can only pump heat in one direction. On the other hand, heat pumps can pump heat in both directions, providing your home with heat even in colder temperatures.
Air conditioners can last longer
Because a heat pump is used to both cool and heat your house, they are often used all year round, which can lower its life expectancy. ACs, meanwhile, will typically only be used during warmer months, so they often last longer than a heat pump. If you just want a device to cool your house rather than provide heat, an air conditioner may be the best option for you.
Cost
When it comes to the overall cost, there are a lot of factors you need to consider. These include the size of your home, the size and location of the unit and the cooling requirements.
Typically, ACs will cost less upfront to be installed, but a heat pump requires no additional fossil fuels. As it captures thermal energy from the environment, it will only consume electricity to run. This means that a heat pump could be the cheaper option in the long-term.
Which is right for you?
Ultimately, which one is best for you depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re just looking for a way to cool your house then an AC is probably the best option, but if you want a device that cools and heats then a heat pump might be right for you.
Portercom offer reliable and high-quality AC and heat pump installation in Palmerston North. Visit us today to find out more about how we can help you.