If the heating repairs are piling up, you have a few options: you can keep maintaining your current heater or shop for a new one. A new big appliance is costly and can take some time, researching models and shopping for quotes. However, if you need to put your current heater out of its misery, you may want to consider a heat pump.
How a Heat Pump System Can Benefit You
Unlike other HVAC systems which require air ducts and combustion fuels to heat your home, a heat pump uses whatever heat is available outside and transfers it inside your home. By using two separate units, one indoors and the other outdoors. A heat pump is an all-in-one heating and cooling unit that doesn’t generate heat but relocates it inside your home. It’s an ideal choice for homes that live in temperate climates, and lacking air ducts. If you’re still considering your heating options, here’s how a heat pump may be the right choice for you.
- It’s energy efficient. Arguably the best perk of a heat pump system is its efficiency. Since it doesn’t generate heat, it saves you the energy that other heaters would need to combust fuel into heat. It can save about 50% of your heating bill compared to other heater alternatives.
- It’s safer. Safety is another benefit to consider, as a heat pump doesn’t use fuel to generate heat. While most well-maintained heaters shouldn’t pose a threat of a fire, the risk is still there. Accidents can happen, but this system saves you the trouble of a potential fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- It can heat and cool in one unit. On top of its efficiency, a heat pump can heat and cool your home, sparing you the need to install additional cooling units. A heat pump also provides a uniform amount of heat, meaning you won’t experience fluctuations in temperatures, or cold spots.
- You save money. A heat pump is not only energy efficient, it saves you money on your utility bills as well as pricey maintenance costs needed for air ducts or other components.
- They’re environmentally friendly. Since no fuel is needed, a heat pump spares the environment the emissions that would otherwise be emitted from other fuel furnaces.
What You Need to Consider About Heat Pumps
If a heat pump sounds right for you and your home, here are a few factors to consider:
- It’s rating. All HVAC units come with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) for cooling, which is determined through various testing. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the heat pump is.
- Zoned heating and cooling. You have a few different options when it comes to energy efficiency, and one of them is zoned heating and cooling, which zones where and when you want warm or cool air. Zoned heating and cooling, however, does require installing a programmable thermostat and some motorized dampers.
- Two-speed compressor. Installing a two-speed compressor enables your system to cool or heat as much as it needs to versus a standard compressor which always operates at maximum capacity. This helps to save on energy costs and its less wear and tear on the compressor.
- Backup burner. If you’re concerned about the winter season, a backup burner can provide additional heat during the most frigid temperatures, and still at lower energy costs.
- Size. Like any HVAC appliance, the size matters. So, you’ll want to carefully consider how large of a pump is needed. The size of your equipment should be determined by a professional.
Start Saving Energy Today
Heating and cooling can eat up a hefty chunk of your utility bill, which is why now could be a good time to consider a heat pump for your home. On top of saving you money with its efficiency, a heat pump also spares you the safety hazards that come with other fuel furnaces. Don’t hesitate to set up an installation today if you’re ready for safe, efficient heat.