What Temps Do Heat Pumps Work In?
A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat and cool your Calgary home. That’s due to the fact they transfer warm or cold air, instead of creating it. But not all families have been able to take advantage of this energy-saving technology.
At one time, heat pumps were only suggested for moderate areas, since they lose efficiency when temperatures were close to or below freezing. When the heat pump couldn’t meet demand, the heating system would then switch to more costly electric heat as a secondary heat source to keep the home comfy.
With updated technology, heat pump systems are now recommended for colder regions. Most can run smoothly at much lower temperatures, although some may still need a secondary heating system if temperatures dip too low. But it’s essential to note that today’s backup heating systems can also be more energy-efficient than before.
We’ll discuss the varying kinds of heat pumps so you can select the best one for your home.
Air Source Heat Pumps: Right for Moderate Locations
Air source heat pumps are the most installed type of heat pump. They have an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler. These systems move heat from either the indoor air during the warmer weather, or outside air during cold weather, keeping you comfortable no matter the weather.
With updates in heat pump technology, these systems can now be added in a large range of climates. But it’s important to know that you will likely require an auxiliary source of heating if temperatures go below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This may involve a dual-fuel system with a gas furnace. Heating changes between the two to give the most energy-efficient heating comfort across your residence.
Because of the demand for dual-fuel systems in cold climates, air source heat pumps are recommended locales without wide temperature changes and decreased heating demands.
Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Recommended for Spaces Without Ductwork in Colder Climates
Mini-split heat pumps are one of the most adaptable styles of heat pumps because they don’t require ductwork. This means you can add them just about anywhere in your residence, like a garage or addition. They’re also highly energy efficient, with most earning ENERGY STAR® recognition.
Mini-splits work with an outdoor unit that connects to as many as four quiet, slim indoor units fixed on your wall or ceiling. This allows you to have zoned heating and cooling, with exact temperature control in each room.
Outdoor air on even the coldest days contains some heat that your ductless heat pump can capture and send indoors. Depending on the model you go with, some cold-weather mini-split heat pumps from Mitsubishi can operate in temperatures as low as -13°F.
Geothermal Heat Pumps: Recommended for Harsh Temperatures and Large Yards
Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of stable underground temperatures to drastically decrease your heating and cooling expenses, typically by 25%–50%! These systems have buried pipes to shift heat to and from your house.
Geothermal doesn’t make a lot of noise and can last for many years—around 25 years for the indoor unit and approximately 50 years for the loop.
It doesn’t need a lot of maintenance and is great if you live in a climate where temperatures vary greatly. In most instances, geothermal does not need an auxiliary heating system.
However, you’ll need a good amount of space and the correct 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 residence. Although the installation cost is more expensive, lifelong energy savings could help the system pay for itself over the years.
Since geothermal is so efficient, installing it could entitle you to federal tax credits and other rebates from your community energy provider.
We Guarantee You’ll Be Satisfied with Our Heat Pump Installation
There’s a reason why we call our Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling specialists Experts. That’s because they have an A+ when it involves helping homeowners like you choose the ideal heat pump system for their residence.
But their service doesn’t stop with heat pump installation. We support our work with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year, as we want you to have the very best comfort you can receive from your new heat pump.
And bear in mind special offers, rebates and financing for qualified customers. Getting a new heat pump is even more economical than you could be aware. Give us a call at 403-279-5760 to schedule your free home comfort assessment now!