More Fremont homeowners are choosing to replace older, less efficient HVAC systems with heat pumps. The Bay Area generally doesn’t get too hot or too cold. This makes it an ideal region to have a heat pump, so your Fremont HVAC contractor can discuss your options. Here, we’ll explain why it’s advantageous to have a heat pump in the Bay Area.
What Does a Heat Pump Do?
A heat pump is a system designed to absorb and transfer heat. It does not generate hot or cool air like a traditional HVAC system; instead, it relies on heat’s natural tendency to flow toward cooler, lower-pressure areas. Therefore, it uses less energy.
In winter, a heat pump absorbs ambient heat from outdoor air (which there is a sufficient amount unless it’s often below freezing) and distributes it indoors. In summer, heat from inside your home is absorbed and transferred/released outdoors. A reversing valve changes refrigerant flow to allow the system to switch between heating and cooling modes, while an expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant to control its temperature and pressure.
Why Should I Invest in a Heat Pump in the Bay Area?
Any time of the year is a good time to ask your Fremont HVAC contractor whether a heat pump would be right for your home. Here are some reasons why you should start thinking about updating your HVAC system:
Heat Pumps Work Best in Moderate Climates
Most of California, especially the Bay Area, has a moderate climate. There’s virtually always enough heat in the air for a heat pump to use. Sub-freezing temperatures are extremely rare. Therefore, the refrigerant in a heat pump can absorb and transfer heat effectively throughout the year.
You Don’t Need Separate Heating and Cooling Systems
A heat pump is essentially an all-in-one solution. You don’t need a separate air conditioning unit and furnace. However, in traditionally colder areas, a heat pump can be combined with electric resistance heat strips or a furnace for backup. But generally, fewer HVAC components mean greater efficiency and less spent on installation, repairs, and maintenance.
Heat Pumps Comply with California’s Latest Energy Legislation
In California, there’s been a push to replace fossil fuel-burning technologies with those that use electricity. Heat pumps match this trend toward electrification. Many municipalities are starting to ban gas appliances in newly constructed homes and buildings. If you have an older home, you can still use a gas furnace if you have one. But replacing it with a heat pump may be an option depending on where you live and your home heating/cooling needs.
Heat Pumps Are Ideal for the Bay Area
Extreme temperatures are not characteristic of the region. A heat pump is therefore an effective and energy-efficient solution for most homes here. While heat pumps are prone to icing in colder temperatures, those installed in Northern California are not often exposed to such extremes and won’t need to work in defrost mode. That can reduce maintenance (although we recommend biannual tune-ups) and possibly increase the system’s lifespan.
Your local HVAC contractor may therefore suggest a heat pump if it’s time to replace your existing AC/heating system.
Speak with IRBIS’s Fremont HVAC and Heat Pump Specialists
We proudly serve customers in the Fremont area. Our skilled technicians can help install, repair, or maintain heat pumps and determine if switching over to one is right for your home. IRBIS is committed to the highest quality service when it comes to installing and servicing heat pumps in the Bay Area. To learn more or schedule service, book your appointment online or call 669-266-5464 today.