Heat pumps extract heat from exterior air, water, or the ground and transfer it to the building’s heating system. While the initial installation cost might be high for certain types of heat pumps, the long-term gains can be worthwhile. Many heat pumps can currently produce up to three or four times the energy they consume in electricity. Reversible systems can also be used for building cooling.
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Here are the main points to consider when making your choice:
Heat pumps can be split into three main types: air source, ground source (geothermal), and water source. The type you choose will depend on factors such as the heat source(s) and installation space available, the existing heating systems, and your budget.
Air source heat pumps extract heat from outdoor ambient air and transfer it indoors. They can be air-to-air or air-to-water.
Air/air heat pumps transfer the heat to interior air handling units, which blow the air directly into one room, or into different spaces via a ducted system. They can be used in reverse as air conditioners. They are an economical and easy-to-install choice for small homes, apartments, and commercial spaces but cannot be used for hot water heating.
Air/water heat pumps transfer the heat from the air to a wet central heating system such as hot water radiators or underfloor heating. Some models can also be used to heat domestic hot water. Although air-to-water heat pumps tend to be more expensive than air-to-air, they are a popular choice for buildings with existing central heating systems because they can be easily installed and do not require ducting or air-handling units. Be sure to choose a heat pump that is compatible with the existing heating installation. For example, check whether it is a high-temperature or low-temperature system.
Geothermal heat pumps use a heat transfer fluid such as antifreeze and buried pipes to extract heat from the ground. The heat transfer fluid is then compressed through the heat exchanger to transfer the heat to the heat pump. They tend to be very efficient because the ground temperature stays more stable than the air temperature throughout the year. However, installation can be costly and the depth and surface area of the ground required for it will depend on the heating and cooling needs of your space. It is best to get professionals to calculate this. For ground/water systems, the heat is transferred from the heat pump to the heating system and/or domestic hot water system.
Water source heat pumps work in a similar way to geothermal systems, except the pipes are submerged in a body of water such as a lake, river, or pond. If the water is close to your property, this might be easier to install than a buried geothermal system. For water/water systems the heat pump transfers the heat to the central heating system and/or domestic hot water system. Water source heat pumps tend to be more efficient than air source heat pumps because heat transfers better through water and large bodies of water tend to hold a more stable temperature throughout the year.
Are you a homeowner in Ontario looking to make a smart and eco-friendly choice when it comes to heating and cooling your home? Whether you’re facing the sweltering heat of summer or the frigid chill of winter, finding the right HVAC solution is incredibly important.
Selecting the right heat pump is not just a matter of comfort, it’s an investment in your home’s sustainability and your family’s well-being.
Throughout this heat pump buying guide, we’ll walk you through the intricacies of heat pumps, from understanding how to choose the right type for your home, sizing it correctly, and maximizing its efficiency.
Let’s begin the journey towards a more comfortable, sustainable, and cost-effective home heating and cooling solution!
A heat pump is an alternative to traditional HVAC systems that offers numerous benefits to homeowners looking to heat and cool their homes.
Heating-wise, heat pumps are different from furnaces and boilers because they only use a small amount of energy to move heat indoors. This two-in-one system also uses less energy to cool down households while generating almost zero gas emissions. They can help you decrease your carbon footprint and save money at the same time.
Heat pumps vary based on what energy source they use for heat compression. Some common types are as follows:
This type of heat pump is the most common in Ontario households. Also referred to as air-to-air heat pumps, they work by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it into your home during the heating season. In the summer, they can reverse the process to provide cooling. It can be ducted or ductless.
Ground-source heat pumps, also called geothermal heat pumps, are known for their renewable process. Instead of air, this heating system pulls heat from the earth, groundwater, or both to warm the coils or underfloor heating. They are highly efficient and environmentally friendly.
Water-source heat pumps use the same principle as air-to-air heat pumps, but transfer heat to a hydronic heating system (radiant floor heating or baseboard radiators) or for domestic hot water heating.
Hybrid heat pumps, also known as dual-fuel furnaces, consist of an electric heat pump and a gas furnace. You get the best of both worlds with these.
You should consider several factors when buying a heat pump, including the region you live and the size of your home.
While all heat pumps provide ample heating and cooling, not all models can withstand extreme temperatures, especially during winter.
The Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) has released a database of various heat pump models that can withstand the winter cold. You’ll find multiple models with varying ranges in temperature limits, making them perfect for below-zero climates.
Additionally, you should look for a variable-speed compressor in heat pumps. This component helps the system switch and adapt to changing temperatures, which is especially beneficial for homeowners living in regions with varying climates.
Many sizes are available on the market, but unfortunately not all will fit your heating and cooling needs. Oversizing leads to a waste of resources, while undersizing puts too much stress on the pump. Factors to consider include:
You can get the correct heat pump size by calculating the heat load and loss.
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The rule of thumb for heat load is that 1 sq. ft. of living space equals 30 BTU heating output. Measure your home’s total square feet, then multiply it by 30.
Heat loss calculations use more complex formulas. It involves measuring various areas of your home and using a program to find out the heat loss of each room. An HVAC professional will be able to do these calculations for you.
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The effectiveness and longevity of your heat pump depend not only on selecting the right system but also on proper installation and ongoing maintenance.
Installing a heat pump is a complex task that requires technical expertise. It’s crucial to hire a licensed and experienced HVAC contractor for the job. Here’s why professional installation is essential:
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Proper installation and routine maintenance not only extend the lifespan of your heat pump but also maintain its efficiency, which translates into lower energy bills and a more comfortable home. By staying proactive, you’ll ensure that your heat pump continues to serve your home reliably for years to come.
Small actions—like replacing the air filter, dusting the vents, and keeping the outdoor unit clean—can make a big difference in the health of your heat pump.
???? Read more: Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Guide for Homeowners
On top of routine DIY maintenance as a homeowner, scheduling annual preventative care with your HVAC technician is necessary. During these visits, the technician will check for refrigerant leaks and pressure levels, clean and lubricate moving parts, inspect electrical connections, ensure proper airflow, and address any issues before they become major problems.
Buying a heat pump is the first step towards energy-efficient heating and cooling, but to fully benefit from its potential, it’s crucial to optimize its performance. Here are some tips to help you maximize the efficiency of your heat pump:
Whether it’s summer or winter, never crank your thermostat too high or low since this makes your heat pump inefficient. Here are the optimal settings you should use:
???? Related resource: Ideal Room Temperature for Comfortable Living
Another option is upgrading to a programmable or a smart thermostat. See the benefits below:
Zoning System: If you have a ductless mini-split heat pump or a zoned system, make use of individual zone controls to condition only the spaces that need heating or cooling.
Investigate Energy-Savings Modes: Many heat pumps have energy-saving modes or features like “Eco” or “Away.” Explore these options to optimize energy use during different times of the day or year.
Heat pumps are not inexpensive, with both the machinery and installation capable of running up quite the price tag. Generally, you can expect to pay around $18,000 for one in Canada, albeit with significant variation.
The type of heat pump you choose will greatly affect the price. Air-source heat pumps tend to be the most affordable, especially ductless mini-split models. Conversely, ground source heat pumps are much more expensive, often ranging closer to $40,000 due to increased labour costs associated with installation. However, as mentioned earlier, the long-term energy savings with these models are significantly greater.
Price variation can also be attributable to several factors such as size and brand. Expect to pay more for bigger units from reputable brands—the concept of “getting what you pay for” is undeniably true when it comes to heat pumps!
If one thing stops you from switching to a heat pump, it will probably be the high upfront costs. However, consider the following when evaluating a heat pump as a potential long-term investment:
Seeing the return on investment for heat pumps requires a broader perspective on costs. On average, the initial investment (i.e. the model itself and installation costs) is recouped after 10 years.
Selecting a reputable heat pump technician for your home is a pivotal step toward reliable heating and cooling solutions. A knowledgeable and experienced professional can ensure that your heat pump is installed correctly, operates at peak efficiency, and receives the necessary maintenance over time.
When starting the process of buying a heat pump, you’ll want to ensure the company helping you understands your home’s unique sizing, heating and cooling requirements, which is where LG Home Comfort shines.
As a proud Canadian, family-owned company, our focus is on ensuring your home is comfortable and efficient for years to come. Our competitively priced heat pumps are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint, all while enjoying a peaceful and low-maintenance home environment.
Contact us to learn more about our customizable heating and cooling solutions.
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