Heat Pump Basics

Heat pumps capitalize on the fact that temperatures in the earth remain fairly constant when you dig just a few feet below the surface. Whether you live somewhere that temperatures fluctuate or somewhere with a more constant temperature, the temperature below the surface stays relatively the same. This is because the ground absorbs 47% of the sun’s energy.

A heat pump system uses the warmth of the earth to essentially provide “free” energy. It doesn’t burn fossil fuels instead they simply transfer heat from the earth to your home and back out. Because these pumps harness the available energy from the earth, they can save you anywhere from 30 – 70 percent on your bill over the next 5 – 10 years. The exact numbers can’t be quantified but you can expect significant savings over a period of time and can recoup the cost of installation in as little as 5 years.

Heat pumps use a series of equipment and piping to transfer the earth’s energy to and from your house.

There are 3 parts:

• Ground heat exchanger
• Heat pump unit
• Air delivery system

The exchanger is the series of pipes that are called the loop. This loop of pipes is buried in the ground either vertically or horizontally depending on the geography of the region. A fluid (usually water mixed with environmentally friendly antifreeze) is circulated through the pipes to absorb and dispel the heat from the ground, water or air. This heat is then extracted by the heat pump unit and delivered in or out of your living spaces using conventional ductwork air delivery systems.

Heat pump systems require very little maintenance, and are environmentally responsible. These systems use the least amount of electricity, reduce air and water pollution and produce the fewest emissions. They are the safest for the environment and for you at home as well. They also provide the most stable comfort level, with more efficient humidity control and less noise.

Your old heating and cooling system can be updated to accommodate a heat pump. We utilize your existing system by removing your old furnace or air conditioner and attaching a heat pump. For new construction we will install the it in the most appropriate location and connect it to the duct work from there.

For more information about heat pumps or to find out if they are right for your family contact us today!

If you are in Seattle or the greater Seattle area request service online and if you are not sure if you are in our service area, check out our service area page for more information on the communities we serve.