If you’re considering a heat pump for your home, it can be difficult to know where to begin. With so many options available and factors to consider, it’s important to have the right information before you choose a unit. As a leading provider of comprehensive heating and cooling solutions, the team at Primo Heat knows how difficult it can be to determine which heat pump is best for your property. That’s why we have put together some information outlining what to consider when choosing a heat pump to help you make an informed decision for your needs and budget.
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3 Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Heat Pump
Before selecting a heat pump for your home, it’s crucial to consider the following factors:
1. The Different Types of Heat Pumps Available
There are two types of air-source heat pumps available: ductless and ducted. A ductless heat pump features an outdoor unit that gathers heat from the air and transfers it via refrigerant lines to one or more head units mounted inside. This can allow for multi-zone heating or cooling. Ductless systems are also referred to as mini-splits or multi-splits. The former term refers to heat pumps with a single head and the latter refers to heat pumps with two or more heads.
Ducted heat pumps—also known as central heat pumps—have an outdoor unit that is connected to an indoor unit and uses air ducts to move warm/cold air throughout your home. Since this option requires ducting to function, it can serve as a great addition to a home with an existing natural gas furnace. It should be noted that some ducting systems may require minor to significant modifications to accommodate a heat pump, so it is important to discuss your options with an HVAC professional. By consulting a pro, you can determine if a ducted or ductless option is best for your needs and budget.
2. Your Current Heating Load
Your heating load is the amount of heating your home requires to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This is largely based on your home’s size, location, and layout. If you’re looking to purchase a heat pump for your home, the model you choose needs to be able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. The heat pump you choose can be used as your primary heating system and should have the ability to heat at least 50% of your home to 21°C throughout colder months to be eligible for a rebate.
3. Your Home’s Insulation and Location
Insulation has a significant impact on the effectiveness of any heating system. In most cases, the more insulated your home is, the more efficient your heat pump will be. If you live in an older home, you may want to consider upgraded insulation before changing your heating system. By upgrading your insulation, you may be able to invest in a smaller and less expensive system without compromising comfort. In addition to insulation, it is important to consider the location of your home and the typical weather conditions/temperatures you experience. For example, if you experience extremely cold temperatures in winter, you may be advised to opt for a cold-rated heat pump as these units can operate in temperatures as low as -30°C.
To learn more about heat pumps or for assistance choosing the perfect unit for your home, 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.