Can a Heat Pump Switch from Heating to Cooling Automatically
With the ability to act as heating and cooling systems from a single appliance, Heat pump systems have undoubtedly changed residential heating and air conditioning options for homeowners across Canada. If you're in the market to replace your existing heating system or thinking or adding a new air conditioning appliance into your home, but aren't sure whether heat pump technology is right for you, you may be wondering, can a heat pump switch from heating to cooling automatically?
Before moving forward with your heating and cooling installation, stick around as the team from Shines Energy gives you more information about heat pumps below!
How are the heating and cooling phases of a heat pump switched?
A heat pump works in a heating and cooling mode. Take a look at how a heat pump operates in these different modes below:
Heating mode
Heat pump absorbs heat
When you've set your thermostat to the heating mode, the outdoor unit of your heat pump will absorb heat in the form of thermal energy, that is present in the outside air. Thermal energy is available in the outdoor air even during colder weather.
Compressor
When the heat pump absorbs heat, the refrigerant fluid temperature increases. The compressor then pressurizes the gas, causing the temperature to increase even more.
Transferring heat
The hot refrigerant moves to the condenser coil, located in the indoor heat pump unit. As the gas is released, it turns back to a liquid state. This warms the indoor air, keeping you warm and comfortable.
Cooling mode
If your heat pump is in its cooling mode, the process looks a little like this:
Refrigerant is evaporated
The refrigerant reversing valve is switched to the other direction when you set your thermostat to its cooling mode. The heat pump will now absorb heat from your interior.
2. Compressor
The excess heat that is absorbed causes the refrigerant to evaporate into a gas. The compressor component will then, pressurizes this gas.
3. Transfer thermal energy outdoors
The hot refrigerant flows to the outdoor condenser coil, where it expels heat into the outdoor air as it condenses back into a liquid.
Is it acceptable to alternate between the heating and cooling systems?
Yes, switching from heating to cooling and vice versa is completely okay. Heat pump technology is designed to work during warm and colder weather periods by transferring heat from one location to the next.
Do heat pumps come with a variety of heating and cooling modes?
Yes, heat pumps do have different heating and cooling modes you can program on your thermostat. These different modes, will determine how your heat pump unit will operate. Here's a closer look at these below:
Auto mode
The auto mode enables your home's heat pump unit to switch between it's heating or cooling mode automatically, depending on the indoor temperature you preset on your thermostat. The heat pump will then decide whether to switch from heating to cooling in order to maintain this desired temperature.
Ultimately, the auto mode on your heat pump can help you optimize the year round comfort levels in your home, help you save on your energy costs, and prolong your system lifespan.
Fan mode
Some heat pump systems have a fan mode. This mode will enable your heat pump to circulate air throughout your indoor living space without heating or cooling it. This mode is great for removing stale air from your interior and can help control your indoor air quality.
Are there any advantages to mode switching automatically?
Absolutely there is! Here's why switching between modes automatically based on your heating and cooling needs can provide you and your family. Here's a closer look at why you should choose the auto mode on your thermostat:
Ease of use
When you set your home's thermostat to it's auto mode, your heat pump will switch between heating and cooling based on the current temperature in your home and what the weather is like outdoors. In other words, it removes the need for you to manually switch between heating and cooling on your thermostat throughout the year.
Reduced energy costs
Your heat pump can optimize energy use by switching between heating and cooling modes when needed. As a result, your heat pump works at peak efficiency levels, which in turn will reduce your monthly energy bill.
Extends your heat pump service life
Switching from heating to cooling automatically reduces the wear and tear on your heat pump equipment. This in turn will help you save money on repair service and extend the overall lifespan of your heat pump.
For high-quality heat pump systems and solutions, contact Shines Energy today!
Maintain a comfortable temperature indoors all year round with the team from Shines Energy!
Our certified technicians are available for repairs and maintenance service for your heating system and cooling system 24/7/365 days a year! That includes after-hours, weekends, and holidays at no additional cost. Same-day emergency repairs are also available so you can maintain your year round comfort levels!
In the market for a new heat pump? Thinking about something other than a heat pump for your home? Book a consultation appointment with a home comfort advisor to learn more about our extensive system selection.
Whether you're looking for a heat pump, air conditioner, natural gas furnace, electric furnace, tankless water heater, or other appliance, our team will work closely with you to help you find a new HVAC system that matches your heating and cooling needs, while remaining in your budget.
If the cost of a new heat pump or other system is something you're concerned of, ask us about our current discounts and financing options! All consultations include a complimentary new system purchase quote!
If you live in Bedford, Dartmouth, Halifax, Kentville, Sackville, or Truro reach out to Shines Energy over the phone or use our online booking form!
