f you’re looking to lower your energy bills while maintaining year-round comfort, a through-the-wall AC with heat pump functionality, like the Amana PBH073J35AA, can be a smart investment. Many homeowners wonder: Can a heat pump AC actually save money, or is it just a marketing buzzword? This guide by Mike Sanders breaks down how heat pump ACs work, their efficiency benefits, and how they can help reduce heating and cooling costs in your home.
🔄 What Is a Heat Pump AC?
A heat pump AC is a system that can both cool and heat your home by transferring heat:
-
Cooling mode: Removes heat from your room and expels it outside.
-
Heating mode: Extracts heat from outside air (even in cold weather) and transfers it indoors.
Unlike traditional electric resistance heaters, heat pumps use significantly less electricity to generate the same amount of heat.
Further reading:
⚡ How Heat Pump ACs Save Energy
Traditional heating methods (baseboard heaters, space heaters, electric furnaces) convert electricity directly into heat, consuming more kilowatt-hours (kWh) for the same heat output.
Heat pumps use a refrigerant cycle to move heat rather than generate it, providing up to 3 times more heating energy than the electrical energy consumed.
Example: For every 1 kWh used, a heat pump can deliver up to 3 kWh of heat, reducing your energy bill.
💰 Potential Cost Savings with a Heat Pump AC
Cooling Season:
-
A heat pump AC like the Amana PBH073J35AA operates as a high-efficiency AC, consuming less energy to cool a room compared to older or oversized units.
-
Its through-the-wall design and sealed installation reduce air leaks, lowering cooling costs.
Heating Season:
-
Using the heat pump for supplemental heating in shoulder seasons (spring/fall) or mild winter days can drastically cut electric baseboard or furnace use.
-
Heat pumps are up to 50% more efficient than electric resistance heating.
Further reading:
🏠 When Does a Heat Pump AC Make Sense?
✅ You have high electric heating bills in winter. ✅ You need a supplemental heating option for a sunroom, office, or bedroom. ✅ You want to reduce your carbon footprint. ✅ You live in a moderate climate where winters aren’t extremely harsh. ✅ You need year-round comfort from a single unit.
🧩 The Amana PBH073J35AA: Features That Help You Save
-
7,400 BTU Cooling Capacity: Ideal for 300-350 sq ft spaces, maintaining efficient cooling without oversizing.
-
Heat Pump Functionality: Uses outside air for heating, reducing electrical usage.
-
Through-the-Wall Installation: Permanent, air-tight seal reduces heat loss and gain.
-
Remote Control & Programmable Settings: Allow for temperature control without wasted energy.
-
Dehumidification Mode: Removes moisture without excessive cooling, improving comfort and reducing energy waste.
Further reading:
🌡️ Heat Pump AC vs. Electric Heaters: Efficiency Comparison
| Feature | Heat Pump AC | Electric Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Method | Transfers heat | Generates heat |
| Efficiency | 200-300% | 100% |
| Operating Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Cooling Capability | Yes | No |
| Best Use | Year-round | Supplemental winter heating |
A heat pump AC not only cools your home in summer but also replaces inefficient heaters in transitional seasons, maximizing your investment.
🔧 Installation Considerations
-
Ensure your room has a dedicated 230/208V electrical line to accommodate the Amana PBH073J35AA.
-
A professional installation will ensure airtight sealing and efficient drainage.
-
Pair with programmable thermostats to schedule heating and cooling, avoiding unnecessary operation when you’re away.
🌍 Environmental Benefits
Heat pump ACs reduce electricity consumption, lowering greenhouse gas emissions tied to power generation. By switching from electric resistance heating to a heat pump, you directly contribute to reducing your carbon footprint while maintaining home comfort.
Further reading:
🚀 Conclusion: Can a Heat Pump AC Save You Money?
✅ Yes, if used strategically for year-round comfort.
The Amana PBH073J35AA heat pump AC can reduce cooling costs in the summer and heating costs in the winter, especially in moderately cold climates. Its efficient operation and sealed through-the-wall installation prevent energy waste while maintaining comfort.
If you want a permanent, efficient, and versatile comfort solution for your home office, sunroom, or bedroom, a heat pump AC is one of the smartest home upgrades you can make.
📌 Next Steps
-
Measure your room size to confirm suitability.
-
Check your electrical compatibility for 230/208V requirements.
-
Plan for professional installation to maximize efficiency.
-
Replace your space heater with your new heat pump AC for supplemental winter heating.
In the next topic we will know more about: What to Know Before Installing a Through-the-Wall AC in a Small Room
