What is a Heat Pump, and why do I need it?
Make the switch to a heat pump
A heat pump is an energy-efficient alternative to other types of home heating systems, such as a natural gas furnace or electric baseboards. A heat pump provides both efficient heating and cooling to help keep your home comfortable year-round.
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Benefits of heat pumps
- They provide heating and cooling all in one.
- They run on clean hydroelectricity so they’ll reduce your household’s greenhouse gas emissions if you switch from fossil fuel heating.
- They’re up to 300% more efficient than electric baseboard heaters.
- They’re up to 50% more efficient for cooling compared to a typical window A/C unit.
- They could be less expensive to operate than a natural gas furnace.
Why would I want a heat pump?
A heat pump is more energy efficient and economical for heating your home than an electric furnace, electric baseboards, or heating hot water with an electric water heater. The technology has come a long way and today’s air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are efficient, reliable and quiet and can still heat your home even when it’s -25C outside! ASHPs work with your existing baseboards or electric furnace and could save you about $1,400 annually on space heating costs. Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) are meant to replace an electric storage tank model and could save you about $370 annually on water heating costs. Learn more about heat pumps and available rebates.
How do heat pumps work?
A heat pump uses electricity to move heat from one place to another. In the winter, it pulls warm air from outside and moves it indoors to heat your home. In the summer, it acts like an air conditioner by moving warm air from inside your home to outside, while circulating cool air inside.
If you are a visual and auditory learner, here’s a short video explaining how heat pumps work:
Factors to consider when choosing a heat pump
There are various factors to consider when choosing a heat pump from your heating needs, home square footage, home insulation and ducting, where you are located, and your budget.
A Home Performance Contractor Network (HPCN) member like Techno Gas Heating can help you understand the best options for your heat pump installation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.