Lennox Split System Heat Pumps in Green Bay – What Is a Reversing Valve?

A reversing valve is an important element within a heat pump system. It is located along the tubes or pipes that connect the major operating components of the heat pump, and helps direct the flow of refrigerant through these pipes. This valve allows the heat pump to act as both an air conditioner and a heating system. Heat pump reversing valves eliminate the need for separate heating and cooling systems, which typically results in lower costs, less maintenance, and improved efficiency.

Commercial Split System Heat Pumps in Green Bay – Reversing Valve.

To understand how the reversing valve works, it's important to first understand how air conditioning works. Most air conditioning systems consist of an indoor evaporator unit and an outdoor condenser. A series of tubes connects these two units, and allows refrigerant to pass between them. As the refrigerant passes through the evaporator, it collects heat energy, which makes the inside of the home feel cooler. The refrigerant then passes out of the condenser, which exhausts the heat energy to the outdoors.

Split System Heat Pumps in Green Bay – Condenser and Evaporator.

With a reversing valve, it is possible to reverse this process to add heat to a room instead of removing it. When the reversing valve is set to heat mode, the condenser and evaporator automatically switch roles, so that the evaporator is now outdoors while the condenser is inside. As refrigerant passes outdoors, it collects heat energy and transports it back into the home. The condenser exhausts the heat energy into the home, then passes the cooled refrigerant back outdoors to complete the cycle.

Gas Furnace Heat Pump in Green Bay – Type of Heat Pump.

Depending on the type of heat pump in use, the reversing valve may be operated using a thermostat or control panel. If a thermostat is used, the reversing valve automatically switches on and off as needed to maintain the desired temperature level.