Heat Pumps 101
Before you consider investing in a heat pump, you’ll want to understand what it is.
A heat pump is part of a home heating and cooling system that is installed outside your home.
When the weather is colder, a heat pump takes heat from the cold air outdoors and transfers it indoors, and in warmer months, it takes the heat out of the indoor air to cool your home.
Main Benefits
- More energy – efficient
- No risks of carbon monoxide poisoning
- Environmental – low carbon footprint
- Longer lasting, better reliability, and lower maintenance
Types of Heat Pumps
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Geothermal
Geothermal heating works by harnessing the heat energy just feet below the earth’s surface and converting it into warm air or water through the use of geothermal heat pumps.
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Geothermal can be used for heating, cooling, and domestic hot water. -
Cold Climate Heat Pumps
Cold climate heat pumps work down to sub-zero temperatures to comfortably and efficiently heat and cool your living and working spaces.
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Harnesses the energy in the air outside. -
Hot Water Heat Pumps
Heat Pumps vs Fossil Fuels
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps use less energy compared to traditional heating and cooling systems, which can result in lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling, making them a versatile option for year-round comfort.
Heat pumps provide consistent and evenly distributed heating, which can improve indoor comfort.
Over time, heat pumps can save homeowners money by reducing their energy bills and providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems.
Fossil Fuels
Heat pumps use less energy compared to traditional heating and cooling systems, which can result in lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling, making them a versatile option for year-round comfort.
Heat pumps provide consistent and evenly distributed heating, which can improve indoor comfort.
Over time, heat pumps can save homeowners money by reducing their energy bills and providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems.
Heat Pumps vs Fossil Fuels
Pros
- Heat pumps use less energy compared to traditional heating and cooling systems, which can result in lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
- Heat pumps are known for their long lifespan and low maintenance requirements, making them a durable and cost-effective option.
- Heat pumps use electricity instead of burning fossil fuels, making them a more environmentally friendly option for heating and cooling.
- Over time, heat pumps can save homeowners money by reducing their energy bills and providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems.
Cons
- Heat pumps may not perform as well in extreme temperatures, especially in very cold climates, where a supplementary heating source may be necessary.
- Regular maintenance is required to keep heat pumps operating efficiently, which can add to the cost of ownership.
- Some heat pumps can be noisy, which can be disruptive to indoor comfort.
Are Heat Pumps Worth the Investment?
There are a few factors to consider before buying a heat pump.
- Choose a heat pump that is appropriately sized for your home to ensure that it can provide adequate heating and cooling.
- Be aware of the heat pump’s efficiency rating (SEER or HSPF) and its operating costs to determine its long-term cost-effectiveness.
- Consider the cost of installing the heat pump, including any necessary modifications to your home’s electrical or ductwork system.
- Look at the cost of maintaining the heat pump, including regular check-ups, cleaning, and any necessary repairs.
With all the great rebates and tax credits currently available, there’s never been a better time to buy a heat pump.
You can take advantage of the IRA, NYSERDA Clean Heat Program, and the Geothermal tax credit. Check out this blog to learn more.
The Best Suppliers (in your area)
Cold Climate Heat Pumps
Are Heat Pumps Right For You?
Overall factors to consider
- Choosing the right size
- Comparing heat pump costs
- Read heat pump reviews
- Installation
- Heat pump brands
Integrating a Heat Pump Into Your Existing System
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Integrating heat pumps into existing ductwork
- Choose a heat pump that is compatible with your existing ductwork and meets the size requirements for your home.
- We will connect the heat pump to the existing ductwork, using appropriate fittings and seals to prevent air leaks.
- We will also adjust the ductwork to ensure proper airflow to and from the heat pump and install a thermostat that is compatible with the heat pump.
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Integrating heat pumps with radiators
- In most cases, an existing radiator will be large enough to allow a lower temperature. This is especially true if improvements are being made to the energy efficiency of your home.
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Integrating heat pumps into a ductless system
- Integrating heat pumps into a ductless system is a viable option to provide both heating and cooling capabilities in a highly efficient manner.
- Ductless heat pumps, also known as mini-split heat pumps, are a popular choice for their flexibility and energy efficiency.
- They consist of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units, allowing you to control the temperature in different zones or rooms individually.
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Dual-Fuel HVAC Systems
- A dual-fuel system uses the most efficient source of energy (either electricity or natural gas) depending on the weather conditions and the current market prices.
- By switching between the two energy sources, a dual fuel system helps to reduce energy costs as electricity rates are often higher during peak usage times.
- A dual-fuel system can provide consistent heating and cooling, keeping indoor temperatures comfortable year-round.
Geothermal Heat Pump
Pros
- Significant heating and cooling cost savings. Environmentally friendly. GSUP’s work well in almost all climates
Cons
- High upfront installation costs. Potential landscape alterations. Open-loop systems may contaminate groundwater.
How it Works
A geothermal system works by exchanging heat between the air and the ground.
Is Geothermal right for you?
Cold Climate Heat Pump
Pros
- Because they eliminate the need to burn fuel while using little electricity, switching to a cold climate heat pump can drastically reduce your utility bill.
Cons
- Their ability to heat in extreme low temperatures.
How it Works
Cold climate heat pump systems can heat and cool your home at a fraction of the cost of oil or propane.
When used with your existing oil or propane heating system, these hyper-efficient and quiet heat pumps work down to sub-zero temperatures to comfortably heat your home.
Is Cold Climate right for you?
