When it comes to heating and cooling your home, you must select the right system that will provide the right amount of comfort while at the same time increasing energy efficiency.
The split system heat pump is one of the most flexible options that are currently on the market. However, it is crucial to know what a split system heat pump is and how it stands for other HVAC systems.
This article will provide you with all the information you require to understand split system heat pumps, how they work, the advantages that come with them, and why they may be perfect for your house.
What is a Split System HVAC?
To understand the working of split system heat pumps, it is necessary to first know what split system HVAC means.
A split system HVAC is a type of heating and cooling system that separates the components into two primary units:
One of the two can be situated in the interior while the other is situated in the exterior.
This is different from other types of systems, for instance, the packaged units where all the components are incorporated in one casing.
In a split system HVAC, the indoor unit usually has the evaporator coil and the air handler, and the outdoor unit has the compressor and the condenser coil.
This division helps the system to work without much noise and with more ease since the noisy parts are not placed in the living area.
What is a Split System Heat Pump?
Now that we’ve established what a split system HVAC is, let’s focus on a specific type of split system: the heat pump.
A split system heat pump is an excellent way of heating and cooling your house with the help of a single system, which can be used throughout the year.
While conventional HVAC systems use two different units for heating and cooling, the heat pump is a single unit that can switch between the two modes by changing the direction of refrigerant flow.
In the warmer seasons, a split system heat pump will act as an air conditioning unit. It removes the heat from the inside of the house and throws it to the outside thereby cooling the air inside the house.
In the cold season, the heat pump changes the mode of operation. It uses the outside air to heat the house and transfers the heat into the house.
This process is very energy-friendly, especially in areas that do not experience extreme weather conditions such as very high or very low temperatures.
How Does a Split System Heat Pump Work?
Knowing more about the workings of a split system heat pump will enable you to understand why it is a good investment to make.
The functioning of a split system heat pump is based on the refrigeration cycle and the transfer of heat energy.
- Cooling Mode:
- In cooling mode, the heat pump’s indoor unit draws heat from the indoor air through the evaporator coil. The heat that is present in the surrounding environment is transferred to the refrigerant inside the coil and in the process the refrigerant changes from a liquid to a gas.
- The refrigerant, which is now in the gaseous state, is then pushed to the outdoor unit where it is compressed and hence its temperature rises.
- The hot gas then circulates to the condenser coil in the outdoor unit where the heat is dissipated to the surrounding air. The refrigerant cools down and then turns into a liquid state and is prepared to begin the cycle once again.
- Heating Mode:
- In heating mode, the process is quite the opposite. The outdoor unit takes heat from the air, including when it is cold, and passes it to the refrigerant.
- The hot refrigerant is then compressed the temperature is increased and it is directed to the indoor unit.
- The refrigerant, in the process, releases its heat to the indoor coil, thus warming the indoor air which is then circulated in the house.
This is the reason why a split system heat pump is so flexible the flow of the refrigerant can be reversed.
It can both heat and cool a home with the same system, which means one does not have to buy both heating and cooling systems.
Advantages of a Split System Heat Pump
Split system heat pumps offer numerous benefits that make them an attractive option for homeowners. Let’s explore some of the key advantages:
- Energy Efficiency: This type of heat pump is a split system heat pump and one of the main advantages of this type of system is the energy efficiency. Heat pumps work in the manner that they transfer heat rather than produce it and hence can offer the same level of heating or cooling as other HVAC systems but at a much lower energy cost. This efficiency can result in huge cost savings on your energy bills particularly in areas that do not experience extreme cold.
- Year-Round Comfort: As a heating and cooling system in one, a split system heat pump will keep your home comfortable all year round. This eliminates the need for having two or even three systems, the heating, and the cooling systems, and the maintenance of these systems is also easier and may also reduce the cost of installation.
- Environmental Impact: Heat pumps are relatively more friendly to the environment as compared to other heating and cooling systems. They are more efficient in the sense that they transfer heat rather than burning fossil fuels to generate it and hence, they release fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This means that they are a better option for homeowners who are concerned with the environment.
- Zoning Capabilities: Most of the split system heat pumps available in the market can be connected to zoned heating and cooling systems. This means that you can regulate the temperature in the various rooms of your house separately and this enhances comfort while at the same time can save on costs since you only have to heat or cool the rooms that you are using.
- Quiet Operation: Because the compressor and the condenser are placed in the outdoor unit, split system heat pumps are less noisy than conventional systems. This can be especially helpful if you work from home if you have a baby or any other room where noise is a major issue.
- Long Lifespan: If regular maintenance is done, then split system heat pumps are known to have a long life expectancy of 15 years or more. These are long-lasting, in addition to being energy efficient, thus, it is a good investment for many homeowners.
Potential Drawbacks of Split System Heat Pumps
While split system heat pumps offer many benefits, it’s also important to be aware of their potential drawbacks:
- Initial Cost: The cost of purchasing and installing a split system heat pump is higher than that of a conventional HVAC system especially if you may have to replace your electrical system for the heat pump. But these costs are recovered in the long run by the energy saved in usage.
- Efficiency in Extreme Cold: Heat pumps are very effective in mild climates for they lose their efficiency in extreme cold conditions. In very cold climates, it may be necessary to have a second heating system to keep the internal temperature warm enough.
- Complex Installation: The installation of a split system heat pump is relatively more complicated than the installation of other HVAC systems; this is especially the case where your house has no ductwork in place or if you decide to use a ductless system. It is advisable to have the system installed by a professional HVAC technician to guarantee its proper functioning and safety.
Ideal Applications for Split System Heat Pumps
Split system heat pumps are versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, but they are particularly well-suited to certain applications:
- Mild Climates: In areas where there is no extreme cold, split system heat pumps are ideal as they provide both heating and cooling during different seasons. It is effective in transferring heat from the surrounding air and therefore very suitable for use in such conditions.
- Homes Without Existing Ductwork: Ductless split system heat pumps are ideal for those homes that have no duct work systems installed within them. These systems can be installed without the need for extensive remodeling; therefore, they are ideal for old homes or additions.
- Zoned Heating and Cooling: If you need to heat individual zones of your house, the split system heat pump is exactly what you need. This zoning feature helps you regulate the comfort of your ride and, possibly, decrease energy consumption.
- Environmentally Conscious Homeowners: If you are keen on cutting down on the emission of greenhouse gases, then a split system heat pump is the best option. It is energy efficient and has low emission of greenhouse gases in line with the sustainable living standards.
Maintenance Tips for Split System Heat Pumps
To keep your split system heat pump running efficiently:
- Regular Filter Changes: Replace the air filters regularly to maintain proper airflow and efficiency.
- Outdoor Unit Care: Keep the outdoor unit free of debris to ensure optimal operation.
- Annual Inspections: Schedule yearly maintenance with a professional HVAC technician to check refrigerant levels and system components.
- Keep Vents Clear: Ensure all vents inside your home are unobstructed to allow free airflow.
Conclusion
By knowing what split system HVAC is and the benefits of a split system heat pump you can make a better decision for your home’s heating and cooling.
Split system heat pumps are an ideal choice for most homeowners who are looking for energy efficiency, year-round comfort, and reduced environmental footprint, especially in mild climates.
We are experts in the installation and servicing of split system heat pumps at Finest Heating & Air to make sure that your home is well heated or cooled at all times.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information on how a split system heat pump can be of advantage to you.
