AIR CONDITIONER/HEAT PUMPS VS. FIREPLACES – HOW THEY COMPARE.

Undecided on which way to go to heat you’re home? Or wondering what the difference is between a heat pump and fireplace and how they compare to one another? Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of using heat pumps versus wood burners to put your mind at ease when choosing which method is best for you this Winter.

AIR CONDITIONER/HEAT PUMPS

• Heat pumps are one of the most efficient and cheapest forms of heating around. This is because they don’t create heat, but move available heat from one place to another, meaning little electricity is used.
• They can be less efficient when temperatures fall below five degrees Celsius but luckily this is no concern for most of South Africa. Most modern heat pumps (Inverters) are generally quiet and do not disturb
• Heat pumps provide you with the ability to adjust the temperature and fan settings, while heat is spread evenly throughout the room.
• Heat pumps are great for young family’s as they pose no risk to the little ones or pets and still ensure the heating of the room.
• They’re super convenient and low maintenance, providing warmth in the winter and cooling in the summer. They also allow you to pre-set the timer or upgrade to a WiFi app to turn on your system when you’re out of the house leaving your home nice and cozy for when you get home.
• Heat pumps are fitted with advanced filtration systems to provide optimal air quality, making them a good option for asthma and allergy sufferers.
• An inverter air conditioner can reach the desired temperature up to 25% faster than regular air conditioners as well as heat your room much faster than your fireplace.
• An inverter air conditioner can save up to 40% power, saving you a considerable amount of money on your electricity bills

WOOD BURNERS

• We know you can’t beat that nostalgic feeling that a wood fire provides – let’s face it, relaxing in a room when the fire’s on, sipping wine and enjoying the orange warm glow, is one of life’s simple pleasures.
• It’s important to note that open fires are generally an inefficient form of heating, with most of the heat escaping up the chimney. Older wood burners and potbelly stoves are less energy efficient, while all three create more air pollution.
• Wood burners will keep you and your home warm when there’s a power cut.

CONCLUSION

While both air conditioners/heat pumps and wood burners are worthwhile forms of heating in South Africa climate conditions – each having their advantages and disadvantage – it’s pretty clear that air conditioner/heat wins the duel. They will not give you the crackling satisfaction of an open fire or give you that orange glow, but the air conditioner/ heat pumps are the obvious choice when it comes to energy efficiency, cost efficiency, and modern-day convenience.