Frequently Asked Questions
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General Product Information > Heat Pump Advantage
Question:
What are the advantages of a Heat Pump?
Answer:
HEAT PUMPS PAY THEIR OWN WAY
Heat pump models are available at a nominal additional cost. In many locales, the payback is realized in just a few months. The following information can help you determine if a Heat Pump makes sense for you.
In Hot Weather:
Carrier's Series 52 units provide indoor comfort in the same manner as conventional air conditioners, removing heat and humidity from indoor air. The heat and humidity is released to the outdoors. Carrier's high efficiency design saves energy and reduces cooling costs.
In Cool Weather:
When the outdoor temperature is above 25°F, the heat pump draws heat from outdoor air and uses it to heat indoor air. Since heat is transferred and not produced, Carrier's heat pump uses less electricity and reduces energy costs significantly.
In Sub-Freezing Weather:
When the outdoor temperature falls below 25° F, the unit automatically switches on a built-in electric heater. The compressor stops and a blower circulates warm air produced by the heater. When the outdoor temperature rises above 40° F, heat pump operation resumes automatically.
Special Features
Two-Stage Indoor Thermostat:
The indoor thermostat senses the indoor temperature and automatically turns on electric heat to warm the room quickly, automatically switches to heat pump mode when the room reaches the desired temperature, and provides automatic backup heat if the compressor should fail.
Outdoor Thermostat:
During the heating cycle, the outdoor thermostat senses outdoor temperature. It switches the unit to electric heat mode when the outdoor temperature is 25 F or below. The thermostat switches the unit back to heat pump mode when the outdoor temperature rises above 40 F, which is enough to provide heat to meet demand. The entire operation is completely automatic.
Reversing Valve:
The reversing valve provides quiet refrigerant flow after the unit shuts off. The valve controls the direction of refrigerant flow for both heating and cooling functions and remains energized as long as the controls are in the heat position. When the cooling controls are activated, the valve automatically reverses to the cooling position.
Manual Compressor Override Switch:
This switch completely locks out the compressor. Note that the compressor and heater do not operate at the same time, thus conserving energy.
HEAT PUMP ENERGY SAVINGS
Heat pumps save more on operating costs during the heating cycle than heat/cool models. The table below shows that the higher initial cost of purchasing a heat pump is quickly made up in lower operating costs.
Use the map to identify the climate zone's designated number. Reading down the left-hand column of the table, select the cost/kWH rate in this zone that most closely approximates your local rate. The approximated savings and payback period is found at the intersection of your zone/rate line and the desired Btuh Cooling Capacity column. Exact savings are determined by lifestyle, local electrical rates, and climatic conditions.
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