Heat Pumps on the High Plains
Amarillo winters swing between mild sunny days and sudden cold fronts. That makes heat pumps useful, usually alongside a furnace.
Request an AC technicianMild days
On mild winter days, a heat pump heats efficiently.
Cold fronts
When a blue norther arrives, a gas furnace or backup heat takes over.
Dual fuel
The thermostat chooses the cheaper heat source for the conditions.
Summer cooling
The heat pump also serves as your AC.
Dust
Keep the outdoor coil clean for efficient heating and cooling.
Placement
Keep the unit clear of drifting snow and wind-blown debris.
Costs
Savings depend on electricity and gas prices.
Questions
Ask about switch-over settings and how the system handles the coldest days.
More help
See heat pumps.
How it works
A heat pump moves heat rather than making it. In summer it pulls heat out of the house like an air conditioner; in winter a reversing valve sends it the other way, pulling warmth in from the outdoor air.
Backup heat
Where there's no gas line, heat pumps use electric strips for backup. They work, but running costs on very cold days can be high, so ask how often they're likely to run.
Defrost
On cold, damp days the outdoor unit melts frost off its coil now and then and may steam. A short pause in warm air during defrost is normal.
Thermostat
Dual-fuel systems need a thermostat that controls both heat sources and switches at the right outdoor temperature. Ask the contractor to set it up and explain the setting.
Quiet running
Variable-speed heat pumps run longer at low speed, which is quieter and keeps temperatures steadier through Amarillo's big daily swings.
More air conditioning and heating guides
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