No. Though high-efficiency heat pumps are often configured to work as the sole heating system, they can also be used to supplement an existing system.
High efficiency units qualify for incentives because they use less energy, have lower operating costs, provide better cooling and dehumidification, and may provide more heat at lower temperatures. Be sure to tell your contractor how you would like to use your system to ensure that it is sized properly. Verify with your electric utility what efficiency levels are needed and if an incentive or electric rate discount is available prior to installation.
When your new mini-split heat pump provides heating and cooling for your main living area, set the existing thermostats back 5 or 6 degrees. Then set the mini-split heat pump to your preferred comfort temperature. When the mini-split isn’t keeping up, the boiler or backup system will turn on.
Heat pumps will typically be sized larger than standard air conditioners for homes that have more heating needs than cooling needs. Heat pump sizing varies by home based on square footage of the home, floorplan, insulation levels, air-tightness, etc. Talk to your contractor to make sure your heat pump is sized according to your heating and cooling needs. If you want to meet both heating and cooling needs look for a variable speed system.
Yes. Many cold climate ductless systems are designed to work down to -15°F. Some ducted systems can work down to as low as 5°F. For a cold climate product list visit NEEP's Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pump List. Discuss options for models specifically designed to perform in low temperatures with your contractor. For optimal winter performance, units may need additional stands and covers to work in conditions with large snowfall.
No. Heat pumps move heat only, not air. If a fresh air intake is something you are interested in, discuss options with your contractor.
Yes. All homes and businesses are capable of being heated and cooled entirely with some form of heat pumps. There are several variables your local contractor will take into consideration to recommend the best heat pump option for your home or business. If you’re looking for a whole-home or whole-business heating solution, be sure to let your installer know. Large homes and buildings may be a better fit for a ground source heat pump.
Similar to a programmable thermostat, a Wi-Fi thermostat can be used with heat pumps. They can also be better option especially for seasonal cabins with an internet connection or where you want easy access to the thermostat without going to another part of the house. When using a Wi-Fi thermostat with a heat pump, check to verify that it is not automatically using a preprogrammed setback or auto away mode.
When leaving for extended periods of time, such as for the winter, be sure the heating setting is reduced as much as possible but never below 55°F in the heating season. When getting ready to return just open the Wi-Fi thermostat app and turn the heat up to your preferred temperature. By the time you arrive your home should
be nice and comfortable.
Only set your thermostat back 3 or 4 degrees at night or when leaving the house for work. Since a heat pump’s output capacity is lower than a traditional furnace, it will run longer than your furnace does. This helps keep temperatures in your home more comfortable.
As outdoor temperatures get colder and colder, it gets increasingly difficult for a heat pump to absorb heat from the air, and the efficiency of the system goes down. On the coldest of days, it will typically be cheaper to run a conventional heating system. The exact transition temperature will depend on the heat pump model, electricity, and backup fuel prices, and whether the heat pump is sized for heating.
A programmable thermostat can be used with a heat pump. However, large setbacks like the ones preprogrammed on a unit are not suggested. It’s best to create a custom schedule based on when you wake up, go to work, and go to bed. Only decrease the indoor temperature by 3 to 4 degrees during these events in the winter and increase in the summer.
This is most important for homes that use all electric heat pumps to minimize the use of expensive electric heat which helps our home get back to temperature quickly after a setback. Homes with propane and oil can also see significant savings by using the method above.