Popularized back in the 1970-1980s with the oil crisis, heat pumps are an alternative way to heat and cool homes. However, in the Chicagoland area we are not as familiar with heat pumps as our southern neighbors. This is primarily due to the harsh winter weather up north and energy costs. Traditionally, we use an air conditioner together with a gas-forced furnace to provide for our heating and cooling needs.
However, this is about to change.
Thanks to emerging technology, heat pumps today have improved performance and energy efficiency to provide both comfort and energy savings. Alongside enhanced ComEd Electric Rebates, Federal Tax Credits and increasing natural gas prices, the heat pump (in lieu of the outside air conditioner) paired with an energy efficient gas furnace are soon to become the preferred method to heat and cool homes in our area.
So, what is a Heat pump and how does it work?
Q&A below to learn more about how heat pumps operate and what benefits they offer.