If you live in a region that doesn’t suffer from extreme temperatures, you might want to consider installing a heat pump rather than a conventional heating and air-conditioning system. Before you review the best heat pump units, here’s some background information.
Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat from a cool space (such as the ground) to a warm space (such as your house). Residential heat pumps can provide four times as much energy as they consume. And a high-efficiency heat pump will remove more humidity from the air than a standard air conditioner, making your home drier and more comfortable.
A common type of heat pump is called air-source. This transfers heat between your house and the outdoors. By switching from electric heat, you can save 30% to 40% on your energy bills with a heat pump. Mini-split heat pumps can be installed in homes without ductwork.
Another type of residential heat pump is called geothermal. This uses heat from ground water or a nearby water source such as a pond or a river. Although these heat pumps cost more to install, geothermal devices cost less to operate because the water temperature tends to be fairly stable.
There’s also a new type called an absorption, or gas-fired, heat pump. These can be fueled by a number of different heat sources.
Here are questions that need to be answered when you start your heat pump comparison.
1. Is a heat pump my best option considering the climate and type of home? If the temperature rarely falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, a heat pump could be the most affordable option for you.
2. How much can you afford to invest? Heat pumps are generally more expensive than a conventional furnace or air conditioner, both to purchase and to install. So while you might save money over the long term, you might spend $100 or more initially.
3. Are you prepared to replace the unit more often than you would a more conventional system? The lifespan of a heat pump is typically shorter, and maintenance costs can be higher because the system runs year-round.
4. How much does electricity cost in your area of the country? Some places, such as the Pacific Northwest, have an abundance of hydro power which keeps the cost of electricity fairly affordable. For other regions, electricity costs quite a bit more than, say, natural gas.
Once you decide whether a heat pump is appropriate for your situation, you’ll need to think about the size of the unit. A heat pump that’s too large will cycle on and off, which can shorten its life. If the unit is too small for your home, it may not keep you comfortable in every season.
Your HVAC contractor will do an analysis called a Manual J, which takes into account factors like the size of your house, the amount of insulation, shade trees, direct exposure to the sun, and other factors.
Residential heat pumps can be very efficient, with ratings up to SEER 26. Get started on finding the best heat pump, and locating a qualified HVAC contractor.