Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a highly efficient way to heat and cool homes in Denver, Colorado. They work by extracting heat from the air outside and transferring it inside during the winter months, and extracting heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside during the summer months. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how ASHPs work and why they’re a great choice for Denver homeowners.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump is a type of heating and cooling system that uses electricity to transfer heat between the indoor and outdoor air. Unlike furnaces and boilers, which generate heat by burning fossil fuels, ASHPs use refrigerant to move heat from one place to another.
During the winter months, ASHPs extract heat from the outdoor air and move it inside to warm the home. Even when it’s cold outside, there is still some heat in the air that can be used to heat the home. The ASHP compresses the refrigerant, which increases its temperature, and then releases it inside the home through the indoor unit. The refrigerant then absorbs heat from the indoor air and returns to the outdoor unit to start the process over again.
During the summer months, the process is reversed. The ASHP extracts heat from the indoor air and releases it outside, cooling the home in the process. This is known as air conditioning.
Why Choose an Air Source Heat Pump in Denver?
Denver’s climate is well-suited for air source heat pumps. The city experiences cold winters and warm summers, but the temperature rarely drops below freezing or climbs above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. ASHPs are most efficient in temperatures between 30 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which is typical for Denver during the winter months.
ASHPs are also a great choice for homeowners who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Because they don’t burn fossil fuels, ASHPs produce significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional heating and cooling systems. In fact, according to the Department of Energy, ASHPs can reduce energy use by up to 50% compared to traditional systems.
How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Work?
An air source heat pump works by circulating refrigerant through two heat exchanger coils – one located outside and one located inside. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the outside air in the outdoor unit and transfers it inside to heat the home. In the summer, the process is reversed to cool the home.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how an ASHP works:
- The outdoor unit contains a compressor, a heat exchanger coil, and a fan. The compressor circulates refrigerant through the system.
- As the fan blows air over the heat exchanger coil, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air.
- The compressor then compresses the refrigerant, which increases its temperature and pressure.
- The refrigerant is then sent to the indoor unit through a series of copper pipes.
- Inside the home, the indoor unit contains another heat exchanger coil and a fan. As the fan blows air over the coil, the refrigerant releases its heat, which warms the indoor air.
- The refrigerant then returns to the outdoor unit to start the process over again.
Types of Air Source Heat Pumps
There are several different types of air source heat pumps available, including:
- Air-to-air: This is the most common type of ASHP, which works by transferring heat between the outdoor and indoor air.
- Ductless mini-split: This type of ASHP is ideal for homes without ductwork. It consists of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are mounted on the wall or ceiling and connected by refrigerant lines.
- Water-source: This type of ASHP uses water as the heat exchange medium, and is ideal for homes with a nearby body of water.
Choosing the Right Air Source Heat Pump for Your Home
Choosing the right air source heat pump for your home in Denver depends on several factors, including the size of your home, your heating and cooling needs, and your budget. It’s important to work with an experienced HVAC contractor who can help you determine the best ASHP for your specific needs.
When choosing an ASHP, it’s also important to consider its efficiency rating. The efficiency of an ASHP is measured by its seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). The higher the SEER and HSPF ratings, the more efficient the system will be.
Installing and Maintaining Your Air Source Heat Pump
Installing an air source heat pump requires a licensed HVAC contractor who is experienced in working with these types of systems. Proper installation is essential for ensuring the system works efficiently and effectively.
Once your ASHP is installed, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure it continues to operate at peak performance. This includes regular cleaning and inspection of both the indoor and outdoor units, as well as changing air filters as needed.
ROX Heating & Air: Denver’s Air Source Heat Pump Experts
If you’re considering an air source heat pump for your home in Denver, look no further than ROX Heating & Air. Our team of experienced HVAC technicians can help you choose the right ASHP for your specific needs, and provide expert installation and maintenance services. We offer a wide range of high-quality air source heat pumps from top manufacturers, and we stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee.
Summary
Air source heat pumps are a highly efficient way to heat and cool homes in Denver, Colorado. They work by extracting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it inside during the winter months, and extracting heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside during the summer months. ASHPs are a great choice for homeowners who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy bills. By working with an experienced HVAC contractor like ROX Heating & Air, you can ensure that your ASHP is installed and maintained to the highest standards.
