In a moderate climate like that experienced in Peachtree City and other communities in proximity to Atlanta, Ga., you may want to consider installing a heat pump air conditioning system as an alternative to traditional furnaces and air conditioners.  Heat pumps offer an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly option that can help consumers save on utilities.

Heat pumps use electricity to move heat rather than generate heat and, thus, can dispense up to 4 times the amount of energy they consume.  There are four types of heat pumps:

• Air-Source Heat Pumps, which transfer heat between your house and the outside air.
• Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps, for homes without ducts.
• Geothermal (Ground-Source or Water-Source) Heat Pumps, which transfer heat between your house and the ground or a nearby water source; good dehumidifiers.
• Absorption Heat Pumps, which use heat as their energy source.

Here are some factors to consider to know whether or not a heat pump air conditioning system is right for you:

• Pros
• Save money on utility bills
• Efficiency, about 300% more efficient than an electric heater in moderate climates
• Easily add supplemental or emergency heat
• Heat is less intense, thus, units runs longer and heat is more evenly distributed throughout the home with no cold spots.
• Cycles on and off less often than a gas furnace
• Year-round use
• Safe to use; no concerns about carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Dehumidifies more efficiently during the warm months
• Cons
• Price.  More expensive than traditional air conditioners and furnaces.
• Somewhat ineffective in an extreme climate, where the outdoor temperature falls near or below freezing on a regular basis
• May require supplemental heating unit in below freezing weather
• Ground source or water source heating pumps are expensive to install.

The U. S. Department of Energy has detailed information about heat pumps and their energy efficiency.

For more information regarding heat pump air conditioning systems, contact Powers Heating and Air.  We have technicians on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about heat pump air conditioning and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Powers Heating & Air serves Peachtree, GA and the surrounding areas.  Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!