A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat and cool your Canada house. That’s because they shift warm or cold air, rather than creating it. But not everyone has been able to enjoy this energy-saving technology.
At one time, heat pumps were only recommended for moderate locations, since they weren’t as effective when temperatures were close to or below freezing. When the heat pump couldn’t meet demand, the heating system would then trigger more costly electric heat as a secondary heat source to keep the home comfortable.
With modern technology, heat pump systems are now great for colder areas. Most can operate well at much colder temperatures, although some may still need a secondary heating system if temperatures get too cold. But it’s important to be aware that today’s auxiliary heating equipment can also be more energy-efficient than previously.
We’ll review the varying styles of heat pumps so you can choose the best one for your house.
Air Source Heat Pumps: Best for Moderate Locations
Air source heat pumps are the most used kind of heat pump. They have an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler. These systems shift heat from either the indoor air during the warm weather, or outside air during the winter, keeping you comfortable year-round.
With changes in heat pump technology, these systems can now be installed in a full range of climates. But you should know that you will probably need a backup source of heating if temperatures get colder than 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This might include a dual-fuel system with a gas furnace. Heating alternates between the two to deliver the most energy-efficient heating comfort all over your home.
As a result of the need for dual-fuel systems in colder climates, air source heat pumps are recommended locales without wide temperature swings and lower heating requirements.
Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Best for Rooms Without Ductwork in Chillier Climates
Mini-split heat pumps are one of the most adaptable styles of heat pumps because they don’t have to have ductwork. This means you can use them just about anyplace in your home, including a garage or addition. They’re also extremely energy efficient, with many achieving ENERGY STAR® designation.
Mini-splits have an outdoor unit that joins to as many as four quiet, small indoor units fixed on your wall or ceiling. This allows you to have zoned heating and cooling, with precise temperature control in each area.
Outdoor air on even the most frigid days contains some heat that your ductless heat pump can use and send indoors. Depending on the type you go with, some cold-weather mini-split heat pumps from Mitsubishi can work in temperatures as frigid as -13°F.
Geothermal Heat Pumps: Recommended for Harsh Temperatures and Big Yards
Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of even subterranean temperatures to drastically lower your heating and cooling costs, often by 25%–50%! These systems have subterranean pipes to shift heat to and from your residence.
Geothermal is quiet and can run for years—approximately 25 years for the indoor unit and approximately 50 years for the loop.
It doesn’t need a lot of service and is great if you reside in a climate where temperatures vary greatly. A lot of the time, geothermal does not require an auxiliary heating system.
However, you’ll require a lot of space and the correct type of soil to add the underground loops. You should also be aware that installation is around $20,000–$25,000 for a 2,500-square foot home. Although the installation cost is high, long-term energy savings could help the equipment pay for itself as time passes.
Because geothermal saves a lot of energy, adding it could entitle you to federal tax credits and other rebates from your community energy provider.
We Guarantee You’ll Be Satisfied with Our Heat Pump Installation
There’s a reason why we call our Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians Experts. That’s since they have an A+ when it includes helping homeowners like you find the right heat pump system for their home.
But their work doesn’t quit with heat pump installation. We support our job with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year, because we want you to have the greatest comfort available from your new heat pump.
And don’t forget about special offers, rebates and financing for qualified customers. Buying a new heat pump is even more economical than you could realize. Contact us at 866-397-3787 to schedule your free home comfort assessment today!
*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.