Packaged Systems
Maximize Living Space.
Split systems separate heating and cooling components
inside and outside the house. Either with a furnace
and coil (inside) and air conditioner (outside). Or,
an air handler (inside) and heat pump (outside). Packaged
systems, however, perform both heating and cooling functions
in a "single outside package" freeing up maximum
living space inside. Depending on structural limitations
and available space, packaged systems can be installed
on the roof, in an attic, or at ground level on a slab.
The choice in a packaged unit will either be a heat
pump, an air conditioner, or a combination furnace and
air conditioner called a gas/electric packaged unit.
Or "gas pack" for short. Typically, in milder
climates, heat pumps will suffice to perform double
duty. Even if temperatures are near freezing, they can
extract heat from outside air, then transfer it inside
to become a highly energy-efficient heat source. Similarly,
by reversing the flow of refrigerant with a switchover
valve, a heat pump can also extract heat from the inside,
then transfer it outside to cool the house.
| Annual
operating costs based on 36,000 Btu unit, 1500 cooling load hours,
and .08/kwh. Actual savings may vary depending on climate
conditions, energy rates and patterns of usage.
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