The Business Case for Heat Pumps
Air-source heat pumps have been used for many years in nearly all parts of the United States to efficiently heat and cool both homes and businesses. According to the US Department of Energy, when properly installed, an air-source heat pump can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a facility than the electrical energy it consumes. This is possible because a heat pump transfers heat rather than converting it from a fuel like combustion heating systems.
How it works
Heat pump equipment has the same components as an air conditioner (compressor, expansion valve, indoor heat exchange coil and blower, outdoor heat exchanger and fan) plus a refrigerant reversing valve, allowing it to operate in heating or cooling mode as needed. In essence, air-source heat pumps operate as air conditioners in the summer but also operate in reverse during the winter thanks to the reversing valve that moves heat from cold outdoor air to the indoor conditioned space by means of the vapor compression (refrigeration) cycle.
Contrary to what you may be thinking, heat pumps operate well in cold climates. In fact, many new ENERGY STAR®-certified air-source heat pumps excel at providing space heating even in the coldest of climates, as they use advanced compressors and refrigerants that allow for improved low temperature performance.
How it benefits your business
- Enjoy heating and cooling with one system. Air-source heat pumps offer highly efficient heating and cooling in one integrated system.
- Cut heating costs compared to conventional heating systems. Again, an air-source heat pump is so efficient it can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a space than the electrical energy it consumes.
- Reduce cooling costs compared to conventional room air conditioners. During the summer months, a central air-source heat pump automatically becomes a central air conditioner. By looking for a model with the ENERGY STAR label, you’ll have peace of mind knowing it has been independently tested to confirm its highly efficient operation, which reduces cooling bills.
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions. An air-source heat pump is not only good for your business but also good for the planet. ENERGY STAR-certified models avoid more than 4,500 lbs. of greenhouse gas emissions, on average, over the course of their lifespan compared to standard systems.
- Install with ease. A central air-source heat pump uses existing duct work to deliver heating and cooling. In most climate zones, an air-source heat pump can be installed as a drop-in replacement when either a central air conditioner or a furnace needs replacement.
- Save even more with SWEPCO incentives. We offer energy efficiency incentives of up to $2,500 to our business customers to help pay for the installation of high efficiency air-source heat pumps.
If you’re looking to start a new construction project or update your current heating and cooling system, contact Greg Perkins (Arkansas customers) or Mike Nix (Louisiana and Texas customers) today to learn how much you can save now and in the future with energy efficient air-source heat pumps.