Nowadays with energy costs soaring and people being more conscious about the environment, choosing a cooling system for your home or place of business is a big decision. When it comes to choosing a cooling system, there are primarily two main options. Those options are either an air conditioning system or a heat pump. Both can do the job effectively and efficiently, but it is important to know the difference between the two to determine which one is right for you.
Air conditioners have three main parts – a condenser, a compressor, and an evaporator. Both the compressor and the condenser are normally located in the outdoor unit of the system. Air conditioning systems manufacture cool air by evaporating a refrigerant product such as Freon.
The refrigerant receives and releases heat. This both raises and lowers temperature in the refrigerant causing it to change from a liquid to a gas and then back to a liquid again. When the refrigerant first begins to travel through an inside coil it is very cold. As warm air is pushed against the coil, the refrigerant absorbs the heat. Once enough heat is absorbed, the refrigerant turns into a vapor, travels to the compressor where it is pressurized and then moves to the outside coil. Once it is in the outside coil, the heat ip forced out. A fan located in the outside unit helps to dissipate the heat.
The refrigerant then passes through a high-pressured device that converts it to a low temperature liquid. When the refrigerant becomes a liquid it then returns to the indoor coil where the cycle starts all over again.
Heat pumps are more than just a cooling system. They actually operate as both a heating and a cooling system. They work similarly to air conditioners but require less energy. Heat pumps work by transferring heat from one location to another. Heat pumps pull heat form the outside air or ground and transfer it to heat a home or building. This process is reversed to cool a building. The heat is taken from inside and transferred outside.
Although heat pumps use less energy, they are more efficient in moderate climates. If you live in a placed that has a moderate climate, a heat pump could save you money on energy costs. However, if you do not live in a place that has a moderate climate, an air conditioning system may be your best option.
Both air conditioners and heat pumps have one primary purpose and that is to keep you cool and comfortable. To choose the best system for your home or building, you should consult with a heating and air conditioning specialist in your area.
