Monday, September 12, 2011

Electric Heat Pump


Electric Heat Pump-Available Models, Advantages and Functionality Considerations.
The electric heat pump represents one of the best solutions that can literally meet different cooling and heating needs. A truly great thing is that this type of pump saves about 30% on the costs when compared to other systems, such as gas furnace. In most cases, the high quality electric heat pumps are able to provide a continuous heat flow, which ensures an even temperature. Another important aspect that relates to the use of the electric heat pump is that this unit operates without an open flame. This thing reduces the levels of carbon dioxide and the risk of incidents, including fire.

These days, the manufacturers provide three different electric heat pumps, such as geothermal, dual-fuel and air-source. The geothermal systems include heat pumps, which are usually located inside homes,

and underground duct work. These systems are more safe, comfortable, non-allergenic and durable than any other heating units. The dual-fuel electric heat pump is pretty much similar to the gas furnace. It is true that these types of pumps are usually costlier than the conventional systems but they ensure a great versatility and efficiency. The air-source electric systems come into two main categories: split systems and packaged heat pumps.

The split systems allow users to benefit from great installation flexibility, providing separate heat exchangers, air-handling units and compressors. The packaged heat pumps are using a network of pipes which heat and cool different spaces. The duct work connects the heat exchanger and compressor with the air-handling units. The efficiency of the air-source systems is measured with the help of the HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). This factor usually ranges between 6.6 and 9.1, while the efficiency ratio delivers values from 10.0 to 15.0.

Prior to installing an electric heat pump, a homeowner has to consider the square footage that characterizes a designated area. Additionally, the measurements must imply different variables, including the amount of wall and ceiling insulation, window and door areas and others. A very important thing that anyone must know is that the two-speed compressors are able to deliver the needed capacity. Furthermore, the low-speed function of these units usually consumes a low level of electricity.

Another great thing about using the two-speed compressors is the fact that they can help homeowners to maintain different temperatures for different rooms. Additionally, the two-speed compressors move the air at the necessary velocity. Besides all these, the homeowners should select the scroll compressors instead of the piston models. The reason for this is that an electric heat pump which comes along with a scroll compressor ensures 15% more warm air than the electric heat pumps that include piston compressors.