Heating for your air conditioning system is accomplished by generally one of two methods.

1) Producing heat by means of an energy source or,

2) By transferring heat from one area to another such as from outside air to indoor air.

How is warm air produced?

Heat generally comes from two likely energy sources. The 1^st, natural gas… is combusted within a heat exchanger and then vented to the outdoors. The 2^nd, electricity… energizes electric heat strips which are in the airflow directly from your blower assembly.

Which is the most economical choice: natural gas or electricity?

Natural gas heating is by far the most economical. The main reason is that it produces substantial energy (heat) and natural gas is reasonably priced. Data shows the average natural gas heating system (80% efficient furnace) that each $1.00 of gas is converted into $0.80 worth of heat.

While higher efficiency natural gas furnaces are available, our mild winter conditions for the Texas gulf coast area typically make them less cost effective.

Electric heating systems are by far the most simple and in fact are 100% efficient in that each $1.00 worth of electricity converts to a $1.00 worth of heat.

While 100% efficiency may sound appealing, electricity is a less cost-effective way to produce heat due to the cost of producing electricity.  Another option for homeowners without natural gas service available should consider another option; transferring heat rather than produce it from electricity by investing in a heat pump.

What is a heat pump & how do they work?

 A heat pump is a device that transfers heat energy from a source of heat to what is called a thermal reservoir. Heat pumps move thermal energy in the opposite direction of spontaneous heat transfer, by absorbing heat from a cold space and releasing it to a warmer one. A heat pump uses external power to accomplish the work of transferring energy from the heat source to the heat sink. The most common design of a heat pump involves four main components – a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator and a compressor. The heat transfer medium circulated through these components is called refrigerant.        Wikipedia    

Read More About American Standard Platinum Series Heat Pumps On Our Website

Contact your AirVantage technician to discuss what heating system is best for your specific home… Call or Text Now 409-925-6171.

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