How Do Heat Pumps Work?

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heat pumps

There is a large influx of heat pump installations occurring worldwide. Different types require unique installations according to their categories. We provide installation services for the most common type of heat pump and more.

This guide will give the ins and outs of each type of heat pump system as well as their workflows. With these tools, you’ll understand the simple efficiency of these heating and cooling systems.

How Do Heat Pumps Work

It’s expected that, in terms of value, the global heat pump market is projected to grow at a CAGR of seven percent between 2016-2026. But how do they work?

The Air to Air heat pump is the most common type of heat pump. The unit is located outside and the secondary unit is inside the house or facility.

These units can work either as a heating-only device or, but a common use is as a device that provides both heating and cooling by making use of a reversing valve.

There are a few ways to configure a reversing valve heat pump. The main components involved in the heat pump include the Main Compressor in the reversing valve.

Refrigerant is cycled through these components to provide heat and cooled air into your home. The pumps pull air from the outside to fuel this process while cycling the refrigerant through these many components.

The refrigerant escapes the piece known as the compressor. This refrigerant passes as a vapor, in a mixed high temperature and high vapor form. It goes through the reversing valve in this state.

The reversing valve, positioned in heating mode, allows the refrigerant to pass through this system. It then heads into the indoor unit.

The exchanger, from the indoor unit, receives the cool air. It then removes some of the thermal energy. This process provides heating to the room.

As heat is removed, the refrigerant will condense this matter into a liquid. Once the thermal energy is removed, the refrigerant leaves as a cool high-pressure liquid.

Expansion Valve and Bypasses

The refrigerant then comes to the expansion valve and bypasses. In this mode, the expansion valve closes.

The refrigerant, in liquid form, travels through the non-return valve. It then passes through the filter drier and sight glass.

The liquid leads to the second expansion valve. It will then pass through this expansion valve because the non-return valve on this side is preventing flow in that direction.

The expansion valve takes the passing matter and expands it in volume. The refrigerant transitions from its original form into a liquid and vapor form. The temperature and pressure decrease as the mixture expands.

The outdoor heat exchanger receives the mixture. The residing air outside the fan is brought back over the coil.

This process adds heat to the cold portion of the refrigerant. The thermal energy in the refrigerant, now boiling at a low temperature, is carried away.

In this state, it begins heading back to the reversing valve. The refrigerant is then re-routed to this compressor and repeats the cycle.

Heating and Cooling Switches

The cooling workflow is similar to the average air conditioner. The refrigerant, which is pressurized, returns to the reversing valve. This refrigerant is rerouted to the unit located outside the facility.

That outdoor unit blows the outside air against the heat exchanger. This air will be at a cooler temperature. Then, as before, the newly created mixture travels to the exchanger.

This causes a drop in pressure, renewing the boiling process. It then travels back to the compressor to repeat the cycle.

Heat Pump Troubleshooting

If you recognize any poor air cooling or a stark rise in the energy bills. This may be a sign of heat pump problems.

You should always use your senses to keep track, look for signs of rotten smells or weird noises. All can point to potential problems with your unit. If these problems occur, you should seek a professional for maintenance. 

Heat Pumps

Heat Pumps are an energy-efficient way to cool or heat your house. Be sure to check your systems before extreme temperatures hit.

The simple installations are low-cost while allowing for easy upgrades. If you need a heat pump upgrade, be sure to contact our services page for further troubleshooting or installation.