As a Dallas resident, you have multiple HVAC options to tackle seasonal changes. However, oftentimes, it comes down to the heat pump and air conditioner unit. An air conditioner absorbs the heat and replaces it with cool air. On the other hand, a heat pump allows its users to use the unit for both heating and cooling purposes.
Air Conditioner vs. Heat Pump
Air Conditioning Unit
AC unit has two major components- outdoor and indoor unit. The outdoor unit comprises a compressor, fan, and condenser. On the other hand, the indoor unit has a fan and an evaporator.
When you turn on the AC, refrigerant or coolant moves through the condenser and evaporator coil and absorb the heat. Then the air conditioner supplies the cool air through the air ducts and keeps your space cool and comfortable.
Different Types of AC Units
1. Central Air Conditioner
In this type of AC unit, condenser, evaporator, and compressor unit are packed together and installed on the roof or attic. To supply the produced air, it connects with the return and supply duct of the building. If you’re looking for a cooling unit for your office or commercial space, a central air conditioner unit can be the go-to option.
2. Split AC Unit
This type of air conditioner unit has two separate units- indoor and outdoor unit. To supply the airflow, it requires duct installation and is usually used in homes or personal spaces.
3. Mini-Split Air Conditioner
If you live in a small apartment or looking for a cooling solution for one room only, this can be the right fit for you. This type of AC unit doesn’t need any air duct and portable as well.
Benefits of an AC Unit
- Offers optimum climate control
- Offers sound sleep by keeping a constant temperature
- Controls humidity
- Improves air quality
Cost of an Air Conditioner
Air conditioner price starts from a couple hundred dollars and can go up to 10,000 USD. It entirely depends on the type of AC unit you buy, size, efficiency, brand, features, etc. Again, while calculating the cost, you’ll have to consider the AC installation cost too. And this installation cost ranges from 700 USD to 5,000 USD depending on the size, required air ducts, and so on.
Heat Pump
Heat pump’s mechanism for cooling is the same as the air conditioners. However, for heating purposes, the mechanism is reversed.
When you turn on the heat pump for heating purposes, it starts to extract the heat from the outside and deliver it to your space. Thus, your space becomes warm in those chilly conditions. However, when there isn’t enough heat to extract from outside, it uses an electrical heater to heat outside and extract that heat to your space.
Types of Heat Pump
A heat pump is usually divided into two categories- geothermal and air source heat pump. From the name, you can easily guess that geothermal heat pumps absorb heat from the ground and the second one from the air. However, most homeowners like to use the air source heat pump more than the geothermal heat pump due to environmental issues.
Again, heat pumps are further divided into two categories- split and packaged heat pumps. In split heat pumps, there are two components- outdoor and indoor unit. On the other hand, packaged heat pumps come in a single unit.
Benefits of the Heat Pump
- Cost-effective and energy-efficient for moderate climate conditions
- Environment friendly
- Offers both heating and cooling; no need for a separate unit
- Some states offer tax benefits for using the heat pump
- Needs less maintenance compared to other HVAC units
Cost of a Heat Pump
The cost of a heat pump depends on various factors such as the size of the unit, energy-efficiency rating, brand, type of heat pump, and so on. If you opt for an air source heat pump, it’ll cost you about 4,000 USD. But for a geothermal heat pump, this cost can go up to 15,000 USD. However, the best way to know about the cost of a heat pump is by consulting with a nearby professional HVAC company.
If you’re planning to purchase a heat pump or AC unit for your space, contact Green Leaf Air. We offer heat pump and AC units at an affordable price with high-quality installation service.
See the summary of this content here in an infographic – AC vs. Heat Pump: The Differences [Infographic]
By the way, are you looking for an HVAC system for your home?
Check out Green Leaf Air Store where we have a wide range of residential & commercial HVAC system including: –
Besides, for any Air Duct Cleaning, AC installation, AC replacement and AC repair services, call Green Leaf Air to ensure you get the best quotes and satisfying service.
