A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat and cool your Boise home. That’s because they shift warm or cold air, as opposed to creating it. But not all homeowners have been able to take advantage of this energy-saving technology.
In the past, heat pumps were only recommended for warmer climates, because they lose efficiency when temperatures were close to or below freezing. When the heat pump couldn’t meet demand, the heating system would then trigger pricier electric heat as an emergency heat source to keep the residence comfortable.
With modern technology, heat pump systems are now ideal for chillier areas. Most can work properly at much chillier temperatures, although some may still need a secondary heating system if temperatures get too chilly. But it’s important to be aware that today’s emergency heating equipment can also be more energy-efficient than in years past.
We’ll go over the varying kinds of heat pumps so you can choose the ideal one for your home.
Air Source Heat Pumps: Ideal for Moderate Areas
Air source heat pumps are the most common type of heat pump. They have an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler. These systems shift heat from either the indoor air during the summer, or outside air during cold weather, keeping you comfortable throughout the seasons.
With updates in heat pump technology, these systems can now be added in a wide range of climates. But it’s important to know that you will typically need a backup source of heat if temperatures get colder than 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This could entail a dual-fuel system with a gas furnace. Heating changes between the two to deliver the most energy-efficient heating comfort across your home.
As a result of the requirement for dual-fuel systems in chillier climates, air source heat pumps are ideal locales without big temperature fluctuations and more moderate heating needs.
Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Ideal for Rooms Without Ductwork in Chillier Climates
Mini-split heat pumps are one of the most versatile kinds of heat pumps because they don’t need ductwork. This means you can add them just about anywhere in your home, such as a garage or addition. They’re also highly energy efficient, with many achieving ENERGY STAR® designation.
Mini-splits have an outdoor unit that connects to as many as four quiet, slim indoor units attached to your wall or ceiling. This allows you to have zoned heating and cooling, with precise temperature control in each space.
Outdoor air on even the coldest days holds some heat that your ductless heat pump can capture and send indoors. Depending on the type you choose, some cold-weather mini-split heat pumps from Mitsubishi can run in temperatures as cold as -13°F.
Geothermal Heat Pumps: Recommended for Extreme Temperatures and Big Yards
Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of stable underground temperatures to drastically lower your heating and cooling costs, typically by 25%–50%! These systems use underground pipes to shift heat to and from your home.
Geothermal doesn’t make a lot of noise and can work for years—about 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 are in a climate where temperatures vary greatly. Most of the time, geothermal does not require a backup heating system.
However, you’ll need a large amount of space and the right makeup of soil to add the underground loops. It’s also important to note that installation is around $20,000–$25,000 for a 2,500-square foot house. Although the installation cost is high, lifelong energy savings might help the geothermal pay for itself over the years.
Because geothermal conserves a lot of energy, adding it might make you eligible for federal tax credits and other rebates from your local energy provider.
We Guarantee You’ll Be Satisfied with Our Heat Pump Installation
There’s a reason why we named our TML Service Experts heating and cooling pros Experts. That’s since they have an A+ when it includes helping homeowners like you select the best heat pump system for their residence.
But their labor doesn’t stop with heat pump installation. We support our work with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year, since we want you to have the highest comfort you can get from your new heat pump.
And don’t forget about special offers, rebates and financing for qualified customers. Installing a new heat pump is even more affordable than you might think it is. Call us at 208-488-4892 to book your free home comfort assessment right away!
*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.