Heat Pumps: Report and Review

Geothermal Heat Pumps

A Guide To Understanding Heat Pumps and Utilizing Heat Pumps More Effectively

Last year, a GreenLiving blog post detailed important facts about heat pumps that apartment renters and homeowners alike should know to be better able to understand the heat pump and how the device impacts a home.

Essentially, heat pumps are energy efficient devices that pump air from one location to another.  Read below to find out more about how heat pumps work:

What Are Heat Pumps?

A heat pump is a device that provides heat energy to a specific and desired location.  This procedure is referred to as "heat sink".  In the process, heat pumps absorb heat, or the thermal energy, from a cold location and release that energy to warm space.

Air conditioners and freezers are common examples of heat pumps.  A common heat pump is an "air source heat pump" which shifts air from inside to the outside.  Thus, heat pumps are effective in moving hot air in the home (during winter months) and outside the home (during summer months).


How Do Heat Pumps Encourage Green Living?

When used for heat, heat pumps are actually three to four times more efficient than electrical resistance heaters in the use of electric power.  Heat pumps are also able to dehumidify the air faster than central air conditioners, making it more efficient.

How Do I Get The Most of My Heat Pump?

Like any appliance, heat pumps might need occasional maintenance.  Your heat pump should be checked if:

1. You Notice Increased Humidity In Your Home:

Do not assume that an increase in humidity is normal.  It might not be related to your heat pump, but it is best to get your pump checked to avoid potential, future concerns.

     2.   You Notice An Increase In Your Heating Bill:

A substantial change or increase in your heating bill without any change to your temperature settings is a sign your heat pump needs to be checked.

     3.   You Hear An Increase In Noise:

Your heat pump may always make a little noise.  However, if you suddenly hear a lot of noise, that is a sign of a major mechanical problem.

     4.   You See Any Leaks Around Your Heat Pump:

Any leaks should be reported so the source can be found and fixed.

If you notice these signs, don't hesitate to report it to maintenance to be checked.

These facts were re-purposed from "Heat Pumps 101" posted in January 2015.  Additional information was added from "Heat Pump Systems" posted on Energy Saver found at energy.gov.

Grady Management was founded in 1965 and continues to provide a full service residential, commercial, and consulting real estate firm in the greater Washington and Baltimore metropolitan area.  Learn more about Grady Management on our website or Facebook page.