What are the differences between air source heat pumps and traditional air conditioning?

What are the differences between air source heat pumps and traditional air conditioning?

Firstly, the difference lies in the heating method and operational mechanism, affecting the comfort level of heating.

Whether it is a vertical or split air conditioner, both utilize forced air heating. Due to the fact that hot air is lighter than cold air, when using air conditioning for heating, the heat tends to concentrate in the upper part of the body, leading to a less satisfactory heating experience. Air source heat pump heating can offer various end forms, such as underfloor heating and radiators.

Underfloor heating, for instance, circulates hot water through pipes under the floor to raise indoor temperatures, providing warmth without the necessity of blowing hot air. As underfloor heating first warms the floor, the closer one is to the ground, the higher the temperature, resulting in a very comfortable effect. Additionally, air conditioning operates through a refrigerant to transfer heat, which significantly increases the evaporation of skin surface moisture regardless of heating or cooling, leading to dry air and feelings of thirst, resulting in a lack of comfort.

On the contrary, air source heat pump functions through water circulation, maintaining humidity levels suitable for human physiological habits.

Secondly, there is a difference in the operating temperature environment, impacting the stable operation of the equipment. Air conditioning typically operates within a range of -7°C to 35°C; exceeding this range results in a substantial decrease in energy efficiency, and in some cases, the equipment may even be difficult to start. In contrast, air source heat pumps can operate in a broad range from -35°C to 43°C, fully meeting the heating requirements of extremely cold regions in the north, a feature that traditional air conditioning cannot match.

Lastly, there is a distinction in components and configuration, affecting the long-lasting performance of the equipment. The devices and technologies commonly utilized in air source heat pumps are generally more advanced than those in air conditioning. This superiority in stability and endurance makes air source heat pumps outperform traditional air conditioning systems.