What’s the Difference Between a Central Air Conditioner and a Heat Pump?

Heat pumps and central air conditioners can both provide reliable cooling for your Port St. Lucie, Florida home. These systems differ significantly in the way they work, however. Understanding the difference between central air conditioning systems and heat pumps can help you determine which of these cooling systems is ideally suited for you.

Benefits of Heat Pumps

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends heat pumps as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional central air conditioning and furnace systems. The heat pump installation process is similar to installing central air conditioning in your Port St. Lucie home. Heat pumps, however, are designed to provide both heating and cooling in one convenient and energy-efficient package, which makes them an outstanding choice.

Central Air Conditioning Systems

According to ENERGY STAR, choosing a central air conditioning system with a high SEER rating is a solid strategy when replacing your existing equipment. This can keep your utility bills lower and can promote the greatest comfort for you and your family during hot and humid Port St. Lucie summers.

Primary Differences Between Heat Pumps and Central Air Conditioners

There are a few major differences between heat pumps and central air conditioning services:

• Central air conditioning systems can only cool your home. A separate furnace is required to produce heating during chilly winter days. By contrast, a heat pump can produce both heat and cooling as required for your home or business.
• Heat pumps operate best in temperate climates and may not function as efficiently during extreme cold spells. In most weather conditions, however, heat pumps are more energy-efficient than traditional central air conditioning and furnace arrangements.
• If space is an issue inside your home, a heat pump system is usually more compact than a furnace and air conditioning combination unit.

At Snyder’s Cooling & Heating, Inc, we offer the heat pump installation and central air conditioning services you need to manage your heating and cooling needs in our area. We serve the city of Port St. Lucie, Florida, and the surrounding communities with outstanding heating and air conditioning repairs, replacements, and installations. Call us today to schedule an appointment with our friendly and experienced technicians. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.