How can a homeowner tell if their HVAC system is a heat pump or air conditioner? Let’s take a look at a few helpful ways to make this determination.
How Do I Know If I Have A Heat Pump System?
While they look quite similar, heat pumps and AC systems are not the same in function. Use these four methods to figure out which system your home uses.
Read The System Labels
The simplest way to find out whether you have a heat pump is to read the system’s labels. Check the side of your indoor air handler in the event you can’t find labels on the condenser unit.
Start by locating the manufacturer label on the system and check for its Model Number (“M/N”). If this number begins with “HP”, then your system is indeed a heat pump. If you do not see an “HP” at the beginning of the number, then search the digits online to determine what type of system you have.
You can also check the system’s energy efficient label for confirmation. This bright yellow label will either reed “SEER” (seasonal energy efficiency rating) or “HSFP” (heating seasonal performance factor). If you do have a heat pump, the label will read “HSFP”. It is possible for some older systems to have no label at all.
Check Your Thermostat
If you check your thermostat and it reads “Emergency Heat”, this means it features an emergency heating option and it is a heat pump.
You can also turn on the heat pump’s thermostat to see if the outdoor unit is engaged and blowing out warm air. If so, you can confirm that it is a heat pump. This testing method may not work with a hybrid system because turning on the heat may not start the pump up.
Inspect The Outdoor Unit
If turning on the thermostat didn’t start up the heat pump, look inside the top of your outdoor unit for a reversing valve. This part is constructed of brass and is needed for switching the heat pump from the heating to cooling function.
If you see a brass valve, this indicates it is a heat pump. If not, keep checking because some brass valves may be hidden from site depending on the system type.
Contact The HVAC Professionals
If none of the above methods lead to a concrete determination, it’s best to contact the experienced team at Cascade Mechanical HVAC Services.
Cascade Mechanical HVAC Services In Tempe, AZ
Need commercial AC repair in Phoenix Arizona? Call Cascade Mechanical, Inc. at 602-233-3265. We offer complete commercial HVAC services like chiller tube repair cooling towers, and heat exchangers to Scottsdale, Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler Arizona and more!
