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Yes, a heat pump can replace your AC and furnace because a heat pump can both heat and cool your home.

Heat pumps work by transferring heat from the air outside or inside your home based on its mode. Because of this, they're able to maintain the temperature of your home, similar to how an AC or furnace would.

Air conditioning units and furnaces have different lifespans and won’t necessarily break down or require replacement at the same time. If you are due for a dual replacement a heat pump is a great option.

Heat pumps will work year-round. Some units don’t work efficiently in extremely cold temperatures like those experienced further north, but Maryland's climate doesn't feature those types of extremes. Our subtropical climate makes heat pumps an efficient and cost-effective solution for temperature control.

When To Consider Replacing Your AC and Furnace with a Heat Pump

• To save money: Heat pumps come in many varieties, and some options are specifically geared to be more efficient so that you can reduce utility costs. If your utility costs that are unusually high or unstable due to malfunctions with your furnace and AC, it may be time to consider a heat pump to replace the two.

• If the lifespan of your AC and furnace is up: Well-maintained air conditioning units and furnaces can last up to 20 years, however, you're more likely to see a ten-year lifespan out of your AC unit and a 15-year lifespan out of your furnace. The replacement may be recommended at around ten years for either system, and a new heat pump can last ten to 15 years once replaced. 

• If you constantly need repairs: Most heating and cooling systems require annual maintenance at the minimum, but if you are constantly needing repairs it may be time to consider a replacement.

When Not to Consider Replacing Your AC and Furnace with a Heat Pump

• If you recently replaced your furnace or AC: It may seem like a more cost-effective choice to replace both your AC and furnace with a heat pump, but if you've recently replaced one of those systems, there is likely no need to switch so soon. Furnaces and AC units can be very effective if serviced regularly. Instead, you may want to consider scheduling annual repairs to keep them working at optimal efficiency. Alternatively, you could replace the unit that breaks down with a heat pump and wait for the other system to fail and remove it, then rely on your heat pump for both heating and cooling thereafter.

• If you haven’t spoken with one of our HVAC technicians: Replacement isn't always the best choice and may not be necessary for certain issues. Consult with one of our HVAC technicians before deciding to replace your furnace or AC unit to ensure that you are recommended the most efficient solution to your problem.

• If you haven’t had a service visit in a while: AC and furnaces can begin to malfunction if they are not serviced regularly. Some issues that appear serious and even temporarily compromise your heating and cooling systems are easily fixable with regular maintenance. If you haven’t serviced your furnace or AC in a while, connect with one of our HVAC technicians to see if repair or heat pump replacement is right for you.

Will I Be Sacrificing Quality By Switching to a Heat Pump?

For DMV residents, like those living in Maryland or Virginia, you will not be sacrificing heating or cooling quality by switching to a heat pump. 

Heat pumps' main drawback is that they tend to throttle when temperatures reach extremes, but the DMV area doesn't see the extreme temperatures that would cause a heat pump to malfunction.

The benefits of switching to a heat pump for DMV residents include:

• Less maintenance
• Long lifespan
• Heating and cooling ability
• Utility savings
• Quieter than other heating systems

Heat Pump Installation Services in the DMV

Are you interested in switching to a heat pump, or need AC, furnace or HVAC repair? Home Air Services in Rockville, MD is ready to help. We offer heat pump services to DMV residents and will help you find the best heating and cooling unit for your home. Call (301) 812-3906 to schedule an appointment today.