Heating with a Heat Pump: Pros & Cons
By ProMatcher Staff
Heating with a Heat Pump
A heat pump can extract heat from cooler external air or it can extract heat from an underground source. It uses a small amount of energy to move heat from the initial source to inside of your home. Heat pumps work well in moderate climates as they are more expensive to operate when temperatures fall.
ProMatcher can help you collect several free cost estimates from heat pump contractors in your local area.
The Pros:
- Lower energy bills
- High efficiency
- Ideal for mild climates
- Can also be used as cooling systems
- Distribute heat evenly
- No need to install a separate humidifier
- Quiet operation (compared to traditional furnace)
- Safe to operate
The Cons:
- High installation costs (especially for geothermal units)
- Do not work well in extreme climates
- Cannot provide same intense heat as forced air furnace
- Operating costs increase with colder temperatures
- Maintenance can be challenging
The Bottom Line:
During the winter, heat pumps are able to extract heat from the cooler air outside (or an underground source) and use it to heat your home. Geothermal (or ground-source) heat pumps are more expensive to install, especially if the installation requires a difficult excavation project. Air-source heat pumps are more affordable to install, but they are less energy efficient. There may be tax incentives or rebates available for installing an energy-efficient heat pump. Heat pumps work best in a mild to moderate climate. During freezing temperatures, it will cost more to operate a heat pump, and you may have to rely on a back-up system.
You May Also Like:
+ What is the Cost of Heat Pump Installation?
+ Heating with a Furnace
+ Heating with a Boiler
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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