Heat Pump vs. Furnace: Why Your Heat Pump Runs Differently in Winter

Do you have a heat pump? Would you know the difference between a heat pump and another type of furnace? Here are some telltale signs that identify:

• Check your thermostat. The thermostat will have two heat settings: a simple HEAT setting and another setting, such as EM HEAT or AUX HEAT
• The condenser runs during a heating cycle in the winter
• If the “furnace” seems to work poorly during days when the temperature dips below 350.

Heat pumps use the same components used for air conditioning, refrigerant gas, a compressor pump, and the outdoor condenser unit. During the summertime, the refrigerant moves heat from indoors to the outdoors. A heat pump has a switch that reverses the process, capturing heat from outside and bringing it inside. The advantage of a heat pump is extreme efficiency, since the unit collects heat and other types of furnaces create heat. The disadvantage happens when the outdoor temperature drops below 35 degrees, with insufficient heat for the pump to collect.

Other furnaces burn natural gas in a chamber and push air around the chamber or use electricity to heat a metal rod until it is red hot and push air over the surface. While using fossil fuel or electrical energy to create heat is less efficient, these systems are not affected by outdoor temperatures.

Your 5-Step Annual Maintenance Plan for Your Heat Pump

If you have a heat pump, there are certain steps to take to care for this type of system.

1. Schedule professional maintenance annually. Since heat pump components are used all year round, it is important to test, check, and inspect the condenser, refrigerant level, and compressor pump.
2. Change the air filter regularly, at least every three months. The filter cleans the indoor air, removing contaminants to keep the occupants healthy and comfortable. A clogged filter will reduce the airflow through the system, decreasing the amount of warm air that can move into the home. Give yourself a prompt on your phone calendar or the wall calendar the entire family uses to schedule important events.
3. Clean around the outdoor condenser unit. Don’t worry about any snow or frost. Remember, the condenser will not be efficient when the temperature is that low. Vital electrical controls are well protected from the weather. However, it is important to diligently remove leaves, trash, and limbs that might blow against the sides of the condenser. A massive fan is contained inside the condenser, drawing air in and up through the network of tubes that comprise the walls of the condenser. The fan will draw air from 18 to 24” in all directions of the condenser walls, so keep everything clear from this area.
4. Ductwork and vents need to be clean and clear of obstructions. Engineers recommend that ducts be cleaned every 3 to 5 years, but you know your house better than engineers. It is easy to see supply and return vents get covered by drapes, furniture, or furnishings during normal household activities. Inspect the vents occasionally to ensure the free flow of warm air to every room in the home.
5. Be familiar with the thermostat settings. A setting will need to be changed occasionally as the temperature rises and falls, between HEAT and AUX HEAT for comfort and efficiency. Most days in our area will do nicely with the heat pump. If you forget to change the setting when the temperature drops, the heat pump will remind you.

From Filter Changes to Condenser Cleaning: Protecting Your Investment in a Heat Pump with Northwind AC

Since your heat pump works tirelessly year-round for both heating and cooling, professional annual maintenance is essential to ensure its maximum efficiency and long life. Don’t risk a breakdown or high energy bills by waiting for problems to arise, especially as temperatures drop. Protect your investment by ensuring all components, including the condenser and refrigerant, are inspected and serviced by experts. 

Call Northwind Air Conditioning and Heating today to schedule your consultation and secure a reliable, efficient heating maintenance solution for your home.