Heat Pump or Central A/C System – What’s Right for My Home?

Heat Pump vs. Central A/C

Posting Date: May 11, 2016
Posted by: Ed Harrison, Manager, Jacksonville, FL

Today’s high-efficiency central air conditioner and heat pumps are wonderful solutions for cooling your home – but how do you know which system is right for you?

While both systems are powered by outdoor units and both use energy to transfer heat from one place to another, they differ in one significant way: air conditioners only cool your home, while heat pumps provide both heating and cooling.

Here are some of the key benefits to each system:

  • Heat pumps – Great efficiency, year-round comfort – The main advantage of a heat pump is cost efficiency: it can both cool and heat your home, and do the latter typically 3-4 times more efficiently than an electric heater.

    A properly sized, well-maintained heat pump operating in a moderate climate could pay for itself in the savings of heating costs alone over a traditional heating / cooling HVAC system – meaning you get air cooling essentially for free.

  • Central Air – Less cost up front, cool in any weather – A central A/C typically costs less upfront than a heat pump and will keep you cool no matter how high the mercury rises. Today’s central cooling systems are quiet, efficient, and reliable – a far cry from older machines and window A/Cs.

No matter what system you choose, installation and maintenance are the key

While today’s high-efficiency heat pumps and cooling systems aren’t cheap (although their cost can be reduced significantly with manufacturer’s incentives and rebates – contact us to learn more) – they are a worthwhile investment for your home comfort – and, in the long run, for your wallet, too.

But like any investment, your heat pump or A/C needs proper care – so make sure you hire a professional team like Broward’s to install, service, and repair your system the right way, every time.

Need help deciding what system is right for your home? Contact BFS today for a FREE estimate!