New Technology on Heat Pumps

At one time, a heat pump wasn’t a practical solution in locations where the temperature falls below the mid-40s. It’s a different story today, thanks to new technology that makes heat pumps more efficient, increases their performance, and enhances your family’s comfort.

Variable Speed Motors

When we talk about variable speed motors (VSM), we’re referring to the fan motor (sometimes called the blower motor) inside your heat pump. As the name suggests, variable speed motors run at different speeds based on demand. If the demand is greater, the motor speeds up; if the demand lessens, the motor slows down.

Your heat pump has individual sensors that notice differences in temperature and humidity, no matter how slight. VSMs monitor this information and automatically adjust operation to deliver optimal comfort through greater humidity and temperature control and air filtration. VSMs consume up to 60 percent less electricity, which saves you energy dollars, and slowly ramp up, which means no loud blast from startup.

Two-stage Compressors

Two-stage compressors are a significant advancement in heat pump technology. A single-stage compressor has two settings: on and off. When your heat pump runs, it’s operating at 100-percent capacity; when you don’t need that much output, you’re simply wasting energy and dollars.

A two-stage compressor runs on a low setting, around 65 percent capacity, during milder weather, which is about 80 percent of the time in Bunn, NC. When you need additional heating or cooling, the compressor automatically kicks into high gear and then returns to the low setting when temperature extremes diminish. Constant operation eliminates the temperature differences associated with your heat pump cycling on and off. Because the greatest strain on your compressor occurs during startup, two-stage compressors save on wear and tear and lengthen the lifespan of your equipment.

Another compressor innovation is spiral-shaped scrolls. Without getting too detailed, spiral-shaped scrolls are quieter and more efficient compared to the typical piston compressors used in older heat pumps.

Smart Thermostats

Your thermostat might be small in terms of size, but it plays a large role in keeping your home at the desired temperature. Smart thermostats are the most recent advances in temperature control and give you complete command of your home comfort.

Smart thermostats take advantage of Wi-Fi technology, which means that you can use your smartphone, tablet, or computer to control your programming from virtually anywhere. Using smart technology in your Bunn, NC, home not only optimizes your comfort and convenience, but it also saves you money on energy bills. With smart technology, you don’t have to worry about your air conditioning running if the weather turns cool while you’re away; simply dial up and lower the temperature setting.

Several of the smart Trane XL thermostats we offer at Alford Mechanical adapt to your lifestyle by learning your preferences. They alert you when it’s time to change your air filter, analyze your energy use, and automatically lower or raise the temperature based on your schedule. With the capability to program up to six temperature changes in a seven-day period, Trane XL thermostats adapt easily to the most erratic schedule.

When you pair a smart Trane XL thermostat with Nexia home automation, you take your comfort level, and your peace of mind, up several notches. When you download the easy-to-use Nexia app, not only can you manage your home climate from wherever you are via your smartphone or tablet, but you also have access to total home automation. In addition to the ability to remotely control your home’s temperature, you can monitor and control your lights, locks, garage door, security cameras, and even your blinds. Intelligence, convenience, and superior comfort are yours at the tap of a finger.

When it comes to heat pumps and comfort, you have more choices than ever. For more information about the benefits of a Trane heat pump, check out the heat pump services we offer at Alford Mechanical or call 919-246-5265.