If you’re looking to have a new HVAC system installed for your home or commercial property, it can be difficult to determine which option is best for your needs and budget. While you can do some research on your options, it’s hard to separate fact from fiction when looking at air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps. That’s why the HVAC experts at Primo Heat have put together a list of 4 myths about heat pumps to provide you with some facts to consider when making an informed decision for your property.
Compare heat pumps vs. air conditioners to determine which is right for you.
4 Common Misconceptions About Heat Pumps
When it comes to heat pump myths, the following misconceptions are among the most common:
1. Heat Pumps Can Only be Used for Heating
Despite having “heat” in the name, heat pumps do not serve a singular purpose when it comes to temperature control. In addition to transferring heat into your home to warm it in the winter, heat pumps can reverse their operation to transfer heat and humidity out of your home to cool it in the summer. This is accomplished due to a reversing valve which can switch the flow of coolant, allowing you to use one solution for all your temperature control needs.
2. You Cannot Install a Heat Pump in Cold Climates
Did you know that certain heat pumps can operate in temperatures as low as -25°C? These units have a higher HSPF (Heating Season Performance Factor), a unit used to measure heat pump efficiency in various weather conditions. While units with a high HSPF are generally more expensive, this increased price can be offset by their ability to operate all year round without issue, saving you money on your temperature control costs while keeping your space cozy or cool as needed.
3. Heat Pumps are Extremely Loud
While it’s true that early heat pump compressors were pretty loud, modern units can run at full capacity while producing about 60 decibels (dB) of noise. That’s about equal to the level of noise you would hear from conversations at a busy restaurant. With this low noise rating, it’s extremely unlikely that you will hear your heat pump from inside your home. Ductless heat pumps are quiet as well, allowing you to choose from a variety of efficient and quiet options.
4. Heat Pumps are Just too Expensive
While the cost of purchasing and installing a heat pump will vary depending on the type of heat pump, the characteristics of your property, and modification requirements (if necessary), rebates are available to help you recover some of these costs. In addition to rebates, heat pumps can reduce the electrical energy costs associated with temperature control over time.
To learn more about heat pumps or to inquire about our HVAC services, get in touch with the team at Primo Heat. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services or the details of your project.