What Are Air Source Heat Pumps?
An air-source heat pump can efficiently control the temperature of a house year-round. When the system is set up correctly, an air-source heat pump (ASHP) can give out 300% more heat energy for a residence than it uses in electricity.
Although the air source heat pump cost is high, in the long term, it is highly cost-effective, which makes them an excellent choice for a home heating solution.
Different Types of Air Source Heat Pumps
Here is a list of different types of air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) and their unique features.
Ductless or Short-Run DuctedÂ
You will need a three-inch hole in your exterior wall for a ductless air source heat pump. The contractor needs to make this hole to connect the outdoor condenser to the indoor heads. The installation process is simpler, so the overall air source heat pump cost of such a model is a bit low.
The “short-run ducted” term refers to big ducts typically used in homes but only in a limited area. It is common to pair a short-run ducted system with ductless HVAC systems for the rest of the house.
Split or PackagedÂ
Most heat pumps are split systems, meaning they have one coil on the interior and one on the unit’s exterior. The indoor central fan is connected to the supply and return ducts.
In most cases, the coils and the fan for packaged systems are located outside. Through ductwork installed in the walls or roof, air that has been heated or cooled is supplied to the inside of the building.
Multi-Zone or Single-Zone
Single-zone systems have one outside condenser that is paired with one indoor head. These systems are meant for use in a single room.
In multi-zone setups, the interior coils can be connected to a single outdoor condenser in any combination of two or more. There are various sizes and designs of multi-zone indoor coils, and each generates its own “zone” of comfort. This allows you to heat or cool rooms, hallways, and open areas. The air source heat pump cost for a multi-zone setup is higher than the single room system.
The Uses of an Air Source Heat Pump
In colder areas, air source heat pumps can be used to effectively heat or cool indoor spaces, and in warmer climates, they can be used to efficiently heat or cool water. One of the appealing features of air source heat pumps is their ability to double as heating and cooling systems.
If it is too cold outside for the ASHP to function correctly, or if the ASHP breaks down, a secondary heating system is sometimes combined with the primary heating system as a backup.
Conclusion
The air source heat pump is an extremely useful system that can cool your home during the summer and make it comfortably warm during the winter. Different models are available for this system, and you should choose one that perfectly fits your requirements.
