Heat pumps are becoming widely popular heating and cooling systems due to their high energy efficiency and dual-function capabilities. Air-source heat pumps are an ideal choice for homeowners in Newbury Park, Santa Clarita, Oak Park, Moorpark, Camarillo, and Los Angeles who experience mild climates. One of the most common questions about heat pumps is how they work to heat a home during the winter.
What Are the Components of a Heat Pump?
A heat pump has various components that must function together to control your home’s temperature. Indoor components, known as air handlers, house the blower and evaporator coil. Outdoor components in the condenser include the coil, compressor, and blower. Copper refrigerant lines connect the indoor and outdoor units.
Ducted vs. Ductless
There are two types of air-source heat pumps. Ducted systems use ductwork to deliver air to rooms, while ductless systems (mini-splits) use up to eight indoor air handlers, each with its own blower, to heat or cool individual rooms.
How Does a Heat Pump Heat a Home?
Heat pumps don’t create heat; they transfer it. In winter, they extract heat from the outside air and deliver it indoors. The outdoor condenser pulls in air, warming the refrigerant, which is then compressed and pumped through the indoor coil. The blower moves the warm air into your home through ducts or mini-split units. The refrigerant cycles back to the outdoor unit via an expansion valve, repeating the process until the desired temperature is reached.
Understanding Heat Transfer Capability
Air-source heat pumps work best above freezing temperatures (32°F). When it gets colder, auxiliary heating elements inside the indoor air handler help maintain warmth, functioning like an electric furnace.
Air-Source vs. Ground-Source Heat Pumps
Air-source heat pumps are the most common and cost-effective option. Ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps extract heat from the soil and maintain performance even in freezing conditions but require more infrastructure and higher costs.
Switching Between Modes
During autumn to winter, switch your thermostat from cooling to heating mode. Ductless mini-split systems require setting each indoor unit individually. This allows variable temperatures in different rooms, such as keeping bedrooms cooler than living areas.
Tips on Optimizing Winter Heating Efficiency
Heat pumps are highly energy-efficient since they transfer rather than generate heat. To optimize efficiency, seal air leaks around doors and windows, and use natural sunlight by opening blinds and curtains during the day.
Reliable Heat Pump Installation Service
Southland Heating & Air Conditioning offers expert heat pump installation and HVAC services for homeowners in Newbury Park, Santa Clarita, Oak Park, Moorpark, Camarillo, and Los Angeles. We also handle heating, cooling, ductwork, roofing, indoor air quality, whole-house fans, and air purifiers. Contact Southland Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule your next consultation with one of our skilled HVAC technicians.