Difference Between Heat Pump And Ac Unit

Think of air conditioners as heat pumps that can only pump heat in one direction from the inside to the outside.

Difference between heat pump and ac unit.

The only real difference is that a heat pump can reverse itself so it can provide heating when needed. A heat pump s outdoor unit is also more expensive to install upfront than the outdoor unit of an ac system. So what exactly is the difference between heat pumps and air conditioners. Although the difference between heat pump and a c systems is significant they work in a similar fashion.

A central air conditioner generally lasts longer than a heat pump making it a more durable option for those who want to keep their costs under control. However a heat pump is fitted with a reversing valve that allows it to transfer the heat from outside into your home when in heating. The difference is in the valve. The performance of the heat pump and air conditioner will only be identical if all of the efficiency aspects are identical as well.

An air conditioner is typically paired with a furnace to provide heat during the cold months. At the end of the day it s pretty simple. Both systems are designed to transfer the heat from inside your home to the outside when in cooling mode. A heat pump can heat and cool the refrigerant used to condition your home while an air conditioner can only cool it.

So basically it s an air conditioner that can reverse itself.