Heat Pumps

How do heat pumps work?

Generally speaking heat pumps work similarly to air conditioners, but while they do have a cooling mode for the warmer months, a heat pump can reverse the flow of the cooling process.  This means that it can provide heat in the winter as well!

This type of heat transfer technology allows it to be more efficient than using a separate air conditioning and heating system. Contact us if you’d like to know more about the most efficient heat pump systems.

How much does a heat pump cost?

Like most heat and cooling systems, sizes for heat pumps will vary considerably, and you may have several options for your specific home or commercial space. When you request a contractor estimate, make sure they complete a Manual J load calculation to shortlist what sizes you should have.

The size of a heat pump is measured in tons – the bigger the tonnage, the larger the system is.

How much does a heat pump cost?

Heat pumps vary in price according to various specifications such as the brand, the size and type.

Apart from the base unit cost, there is an installation fee and sometimes a fee to dismantle the old heating system.  As you shop around, be sure to do your research on any contractors you shortlist.  Not all heat pump specialists are created equal.

How efficient are heat pumps?

Heat pumps are extremely efficient when they have been installed correctly by a certified technician.

Under best conditions, some heat pump can transfer up to 300 percent more energy than it consumes! By contrast, even a high-end gas furnace is only about 95 percent efficient.

Since heat pumps are electrically powered, you can save huge amounts on fuel costs. Heat pumps can serve as both a heater and air conditioner throughout the year, and they are over 100% efficient all year ’round.

How do I operate a heat pump in winter?

Most often you want to “set it and forget it”.  You can control your temperature on your heat pump like any typical thermostat.

This means you can set your thermostat to your preferred temperature for that occasion or time of year and let it be. It’s designed to keep a consistent temperature and to work efficiently on a long-term basis.

We suggest you try to refrain from making frequent large temperature advances or set backs. If you have to adjust your thermostat, try to avoid lowering the set point by more than 2ᵒC in the coldest months to minimize large variances.