How a Heat Pump Works

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A heat pump can transfer heat from one space to another instead of heating the area more directly, like a gas or electric furnace. Air conditioners and refrigerators work in similar ways. Using a heat pump is more efficient than a separate heater and air conditioner. It takes up less space, and it’s easier to install and maintain. Many types of heat pumps are available, including ductless, packaged and window units. Before you decide on a heat pump for your home in North Las Vegas, Nevada, learn about the main parts of most heat pumps and how they work.

Indoor Air Handler

Your indoor air handler usually sits inside a utility closet or in your basement. It contains hot condenser coils full of refrigerant that warm your indoor air. After the refrigerant cools and condenses from a gas to a liquid, it moves to the outdoor part of your HVAC system.

Outdoor Unit

The outdoor parts of a heat pump are usually covered with metal casings, and they have fans with evaporator coils. As the liquid refrigerant from the condenser becomes a gas, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air. This process works well even when the weather is near freezing.

Compressor

Your compressor circulates refrigerant through your heat pump’s coils. Reversing valves change the direction of your refrigerant’s flow in warm weather. The coils in the indoor unit become evaporator coils, and the outdoor coils act as a condenser. Thermostatic expansion valves regulate the refrigerant flow, similar to the way a faucet controls water flow. An accumulator uses a refrigerant reservoir to adjust the amount in the coils depending on the season.

Sun Country Heating & Cooling has been serving the Las Vegas area since 2004, and we’re a Trane Comfort Specialist. We can help you with installing, maintaining, and repairing a range of heating and air conditioning equipment, including heat pumps. For 100-percent satisfaction, flat-rate pricing and outstanding service, call us anytime at (702) 213-2857.

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