6 Myths About Heat Pumps in Norco, CA

Heat pumps revolutionized how people think about heating and cooling their homes and businesses. Many households are still hesitant to switch to these systems because of the array of fictitious information associated with them. Here are six pieces of common misinformation you should know to avoid falling prey to the common myths surrounding heat pumps in Norco, CA.

Aren’t Efficient During Cold Winters

Based on how they work, many people believe that heat pumps can’t keep up with the extreme temperatures during winter because they’re not as powerful. Heat pumps can transfer 300% of the energy they consume, which means that for every unit of electricity they use, they produce three units of energy needed to warm your home.

Heat pumps work a bit harder during winter, performing at around 20% less efficiency. But this still makes them much more efficient than other HVAC systems. Heat pump systems are available that service homes in weather down to -25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heat Pumps Are Loud

This misconception probably comes from the fact that heat pumps use a fan to move air around, but it’ll surprise you at how quiet they can be when installed properly. Newer models allow homeowners to control their noise levels by lowering or increasing their sound output. Depending on its size and brand, a heat pump shouldn’t exceed approximately 60 decibels while running – the same as a conversation.

Expensive to Install and Maintain

The cost to install a heat pump depends on the size of your home, among other factors. Many heat pumps are more affordable than furnaces or boilers, but this isn’t always the case, so it’s best to get an estimate before making your decision.

For maintenance, some homeowners believe that because a heat pump is electric, its regular maintenance will be expensive. On the contrary, routine maintenance and servicing your system at least once or twice per year can go a long way in helping you avoid costly repairs down the line.

Need to Stay on All the Time

This myth probably arose because some live in poorly insulated houses. Typically, when your house isn’t well-insulated, it won’t be able to lock in the heat produced by your heat pump, forcing you to keep it running all day. This also applies to other systems like boilers and air conditioners.

However, if your home is insulated well and all parts of your heat pump are functioning properly, there’s no need to keep it running constantly. It has a thermostat that you can adjust to turn on and off as you need. Even better, if you have a modern programmable thermostat with an application you can install on your phone, you can control your system remotely.

Take Up a Lot of Space

Even though a heat pump integrates many external components, such as an outdoor air compressor, underground loops, pipes and valves, they don’t take up a lot of space. In other words, you won’t have to worry about sacrificing your lawn or outdoor area for the installation of a heat pump system.

When it comes to indoor units, modern systems come with discreet wall-mounted designs that blend into just about any décor. They are nearly two feet tall, one foot in depth and around 32 inches wide.

Only Use Heat Pumps for Heating

Modern heat pumps have a component known as “a reversing valve.” It reverses the flow of the coolant, allowing your heat pump to switch between cooling and heating modes.

A ground-source heat pump can also provide hot water for your shower, sinks and other appliances. Some even come with ice-melting capabilities, which make them a great choice in climates where snowfall is common.

Our team of service technicians is ready to assist you with your HVAC needs. Contact Metz Air Control for any repair or maintenance that you need to keep your heat pump running efficiently for years to come in Norco, CA.

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