Thinking about installing an electric heat pump for your home in California? It’s a great investment that will make your house more comfortable while potentially saving you money on your energy costs.
At A-1 Guaranteed, we specialize in heat pump installation for California homes. We wrote this guide to help you learn everything you need to know before installing a heat pump HVAC system in your home.
How Does a Heat Pump Work?
Heat pumps work by moving heat from one place to another, instead of burning fuel to create heat the way a furnace does.
In the summer, they work just like an air conditioner, removing heat and humidity from the air inside your home. In the winter, they work in reverse, pulling heat from the air outside and using it to warm up your home.
This technology is most efficient in mild to moderate climates, which is why heat pumps work so well in California.
Types of Heat Pump HVAC Systems
There are several types of heat pumps. Air-source heat pumps are the most common for space heating and cooling. They’re available in ducted and ductless configurations:
Ducted Heat Pumps
Ducted heat pumps use air ducts and vents to provide centralized heating and cooling for your entire home. If you have a furnace or central air conditioning system already, a ducted heat pump is likely the best option for your home, as long as your ducts are in good condition.
Ductless Heat Pumps
Ductless heat pumps provide heating and air conditioning without connecting to air ducts. They directly heat and cool the room they’re installed in via indoor air handlers, which are typically mounted on the wall.
Pros & Cons of Electric Heat Pumps
Electric heat pump HVAC systems have a lot of benefits, especially in California. We’re heading toward a gas ban, and soon you won’t be able to buy a new gas furnace. There are rebates and incentives to help you convert to an electric heat pump, but they won’t be available forever. If you’re thinking about installing a new heating or AC system, it makes sense to choose a heat pump and take advantage of those rebates while you can.
Pros
- Lower energy costs – Heat pumps are highly energy efficient and can save you money on your heating costs, especially if you’re replacing oil or baseboard heat.
- No fossil fuels – Heat pumps don’t burn fuel in your house, which is safer and eliminates the risk of a carbon monoxide leak.
- Heat and AC in one – With a heat pump, you get heating and air conditioning in one system for around the same cost as installing a new furnace or central AC.
- Can run on solar energy – If you have or plan to install solar panels, a heat pump is a no-brainer. Heat pumps are all-electric, so you can power them for free with solar panels.
Cons
- Installation cost – Some homeowners worry about high installation costs, but heat pumps are priced similarly to central air conditioners and gas furnaces. If you need to replace your HVAC system anyway, installing a heat pump won’t make a big impact on your costs.
- Struggles in cold climates – Heat pumps are less efficient in colder climates like the North East.
- Visible wall units – With a ductless system, the indoor air handlers are visible. They’re typically mounted on walls, but can be hidden inside ceilings and even floors.
See if a Heat Pump Is Right for Your Home
Not sure if an electric heat pump makes sense for your home? We can help you decide! At A-1 Guaranteed, we’ve been installing heating and air conditioning systems in California homes since 1996. We offer free consultations and estimates to help you find the right fit for your home and budget.
