So basically it s an air conditioner that can reverse itself.
Difference between heat pump and ac unit.
So what exactly is the difference between heat pumps and air conditioners.
Together an air conditioner and furnace are a complete heating and cooling system.
A central air conditioner generally lasts longer than a heat pump making it a more durable option for those who want to keep their costs under control.
A heat pump s outdoor unit is also more expensive to install upfront than the outdoor unit of an ac system.
The only real difference is that a heat pump can reverse itself so it can provide heating when needed.
An air conditioner is typically paired with a furnace to provide heat during the cold months.
At the end of the day it s pretty simple.
However a heat pump is fitted with a reversing valve that allows it to transfer the heat from outside into your home when in heating.
The difference is in the valve.
The performance of the heat pump and air conditioner will only be identical if all of the efficiency aspects are identical as well.
Although the difference between heat pump and a c systems is significant they work in a similar fashion.
A heat pump can heat and cool but an air conditioner cannot which is the primary difference between the two hvac systems.
Both systems are designed to transfer the heat from inside your home to the outside when in cooling mode.