- Why should I choose a heat pump?
- Will I still need a backup heat source?
- Can a heat pump replace my air conditioner?
- What kind of maintenance does a heat pump need?
Why should I choose a heat pump?
- A green choice: Heat pumps deliver up to 75% renewable energy when in heating mode
- Keep cool in the summer: A heat pump is twice as energy efficient as a stand-alone window air conditioning unit and dehumidifies your home on muggy days.
- Say goodbye to allergies: A heat pump will clean your home’s air, keeping pollen, dust and dirt away so your family can breathe easy.
- Bug off! A heat pump means you can stay cool even with your windows and doors closed so those pesky insects stay outside where they belong.
- Peace of mind: Installing an efficient, easy to use system to heat and cool your home makes your life simpler, and heat pumps are easy to maintain no matter the season.
Will I still need a backup heat source?
A ducted heat pump system would be installed along with an integrated backup heat source – either electric, oil, propane or natural gas. A ductless system could rely on any previously existing heat source the backup. The heat pumps are the primary heat sources, the backups would only supplement them in colder temperatures.
When you choose a ENERGY STAR rated heat pump, some ductless units can still produce heat when the outdoor temperature is as low as -27C. When the outside temperature dips below the balance point, then the other fuel system kicks in.
Some ductless units can still produce heat when outdoor temperature is as low as -27C
The balance point is the temperature at which the amount of heating provided by the heat pump equals the amount of heat lost from your house. At this point, the heat pump capacity matches the full heating needs of your home. Below this temperature, your supplementary or backup heat would be required.
Can a heat pump replace my air conditioner?
During the warmer months, heat pumps work in reverse to keep your home cool and comfortable by moving heat and humidity from inside your home, outside. The heat pump unit acts as a fully equipped air conditioner. They’re reliable, efficient, and offer the best of both worlds with heating and cooling benefits all in one system.
What kind of maintenance does a heat pump need?
Like all heating and cooling systems, proper maintenance is key to efficient operation. The difference between the energy consumption of a well maintained heat pump and a severely neglected one ranges from 10%-25%.
Clean or change filters every 3 months or as needed, and maintain the system according to manufacturer’s instructions. Dirty filters, coils, and fans reduce air flow through the system. Reduced air flow decreases system performance and can damage your system’s compressor. Remove vegetation and clutter from around the outdoor unit.
You should also have a professional technician service your heat pump at least every year. The technician can do the following:
- Inspect ducts, filters, blower, and indoor coil for dirt and other obstructions
- Verify correct refrigerant charge by measurement
- Check for refrigerant leaks
- Inspect electric terminals, and, if necessary, clean and tighten connections
- Lubricate motors, and inspect belts for tightness and wear
- Verify correct electric control, making sure that heating is locked out when the thermostat calls for cooling and vice versa
- Verify correct thermostat operations