Difference Between Heat Pump And Ac Unit

So basically it s an air conditioner that can reverse itself.

Difference between heat pump and ac unit.

A heat pump can heat and cool the refrigerant used to condition your home while an air conditioner can only cool it. A heat pump s outdoor unit is also more expensive to install upfront than the outdoor unit of an ac system. The difference is in the valve. However a heat pump is fitted with a reversing valve that allows it to transfer the heat from outside into your home when in heating.

The heat pump and the air conditioner may rely on the same basic refrigeration principle but if all of the cooling details are identical there is still one key difference. Although the difference between heat pump and a c systems is significant they work in a similar fashion. The performance of the heat pump and air conditioner will only be identical if all of the efficiency aspects are identical as well. An air conditioner is typically paired with a furnace to provide heat during the cold months.

Together an air conditioner and furnace are a complete heating and cooling system. Think of air conditioners as heat pumps that can only pump heat in one direction from the inside to the outside. So what exactly is the difference between heat pumps and air conditioners. The only real difference is that a heat pump can reverse itself so it can provide heating when needed.

A central air conditioner generally lasts longer than a heat pump making it a more durable option for those who want to keep their costs under control.