Chances are that you are familiar with at least a few different HVAC systems that may be used in homes to keep them cool throughout the year. Every now and then, though, we like to throw out a very quick refresher so that homeowners thinking about replacing their heaters or ACs can be reminded of some other options that they may not be so familiar with. That way, you can keep them in mind when the time comes to start seriously considering your new system.
We’ll also take this opportunity to remind you that, while there are certainly a lot of great heaters and air conditioning systems out there, not one of them will function at peak performance, efficiency, and reliability levels if not professionally installed and serviced. Do not put your system and your own personal comfort at risk—not to mention your safety. Schedule your HVAC services in Columbia, SC with the professional technicians on our team.
Split Central Air Conditioners
We probably don’t have to go too in depth with you regarding what a central air conditioner is. This is South Carolina, after all, and we are no strangers to hot, humid summer weather. You may not be entirely sure how a central AC really works to cool your home, though. Here’s a quick rundown.
The refrigerant in the air conditioner acts as the heat transfer fluid, and is evaporated in the evaporator coil. This coil is located in the indoor AC unit. The refrigerant removes heat from the air as it evaporates, continues to the condenser coil in the outdoor unit, and releases that heat as it is condensed.
Heat Pumps/Ductless Mini Splits
Two great options in this area, with our relatively mild winter weather, are the air-source heat pump and ductless mini splits. Heat pumps work just like central air conditioners, but can reverse their mode of operation. In the winter, refrigerant is evaporated in the outdoor unit, drawing heat out of it, and then compressed to boost its thermal energy. Then, it is condensed and its heat is used to warm the house.
A ductless mini split system operates by using heat pump technology as well. Unlike a traditional air source heat pump, a furnace, or a central AC, however, this type of system does not use ductwork to distribute conditioned air throughout a house. Instead, individual, wall-mounted blowers are used. This makes the system even more efficient, as there is no risk of leaky ductwork, and you heat (or cool) only those areas that you choose.
Geothermal Heating & Cooling Systems
In addition to air-to-air heat pumps and ductless mini splits, there are also ground-source heat pumps to consider. This type of system is also commonly called the “ground source heat pump”. A ground source heat pump transfers heat to the ground, at a depth where the temperature does not really waver.
This means that there is always ample heat to draw on to heat your home. However, it also makes the cooling process more efficient. It takes less energy to release heat into the relatively cool ground than it does to release it into the sweltering air outside. Whether you want to use any variation of a heat pump or something more familiar like a gas or electric furnace, remember to schedule your HVAC services with us.
Fulmer Heating & Cooling will keep you comfortable all year long.