Air Source Heat Pumps: Pros, Cons and Buying Guide

21 Oct.,2024

 

Air Source Heat Pumps: Pros, Cons and Buying Guide

Looking for an innovative, Energy Star-certified, cost-effective, and eco-friendly way to heat your home or office? Look no further than air source heat pumps! These heating systems use a refrigerant to extract heat from ambient air outside and transfer it indoors through an indoor unit. Plus, you can pair them with solar panels for even greater energy savings. Air source heat pumps are taking the world by storm, providing a reliable and efficient way to warm up your space while reducing your carbon footprint.

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Air source heat pump technology has been around for decades, but recent advancements have made them more effective than traditional heating methods. With two main types of systems available- ductless heat pumps and split systems- there's an option that will work for any space. Both systems consist of an outdoor unit that contains the refrigerant and an indoor unit with an evaporator.

So what exactly is an air source heat pump? Simply put, it's a type of heating system that utilizes ventilation to extract heat from the air flow using an evaporator and transfers it to the water or air being heated with the help of a refrigerant and condenser. This means you can enjoy warm indoor temperatures without having to rely on costly fossil fuels or other non-renewable resources.

Whether you're looking for a whole-house solution or just need to keep a smaller space comfortable, a split system air source heat pump could be the perfect choice during the heating season. This ductless system uses refrigerant to efficiently transfer heat from the outside air to your home, providing reliable and cost-effective heating. So why wait? Explore the benefits of this revolutionary technology today!

Benefits of Using Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps are a highly efficient and cost-effective option for heating and cooling homes and buildings. They use renewable energy from the air to generate heat, which makes them environmentally friendly and helps to combat climate change. Additionally, these pumps use refrigerant to transfer heat, which increases their efficiency. Split system air source heat pumps can also be installed for more targeted heating and cooling. For those interested in solar power, air source heat pumps can be combined with solar panels to further reduce energy costs. Proper ventilation is also important when using air source heat pumps to ensure optimal performance.

Highly Efficient

One of the most significant benefits of using an air source heat pump is its high efficiency in converting electricity into useful heat. By using a refrigerant gas, it can provide up to three times more heat than the electricity it consumes. Additionally, it promotes good ventilation in your home or building, which can improve indoor air quality. If you're looking for a renewable energy option, you can also consider pairing it with solar panels to further reduce your carbon footprint.

Environmentally Friendly

Air source heat pumps are an ideal solution for space heating during the heating season. They use renewable energy from the air to generate heat, reducing carbon emissions and helping to combat climate change. The refrigerant used in air source heat pumps is environmentally friendly, making them a sustainable choice for your home or building. Additionally, they can be combined with solar panels to further reduce your carbon footprint. By installing an air source heat pump, you can contribute to a greener future while keeping your space warm and comfortable.

Cost-Effective

Using an air source heat pump, which utilizes refrigerant and coils to transfer heat, can significantly reduce your energy bills while maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home or building. This solar-powered option may have higher initial installation costs compared to traditional heating methods like gas boilers or electric heaters, but it will save you money in the long run due to lower running costs.

Increases Property Value

Installing an air source heat pump can increase the value of your property as it is seen as a desirable and sustainable heating solution. With more people becoming aware of climate change and looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, having an air source heat pump installed in your property could make it more attractive to potential buyers. The refrigerant used in air source heat pumps is environmentally friendly, making them a great alternative to gas heating systems. Additionally, air source heat pumps can be powered by solar energy, which further reduces their carbon footprint. These pumps are also able to maintain a consistent temperature, providing a comfortable living environment all year round.

Low Maintenance

Air source heat pumps require very little maintenance compared to traditional heating systems such as gas boilers or electric heaters. Once installed, they only need occasional cleaning and servicing by a qualified engineer every few years. The refrigerant used in the system ensures efficient transfer of heat at outdoor temperature levels without producing much noise.

Year-Round Comfort

Air source heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, providing year-round comfort in any climate. They can extract heat from the outdoor air even when the temperature is cold outside, making them an efficient heating solution for colder climates. Additionally, they operate without gas and produce minimal noise, ensuring a quiet and eco-friendly environment.

Types of Air Source Heat Pump Systems

Air source heat pumps, which utilize outdoor temperature, are becoming increasingly popular as an energy-efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional heating systems. There are two main types of air source heat pump systems: air-to-air and air-to-water. These systems do not require gas for operation.

Air-to-Air Systems

Air-to-air and ground source systems work by extracting heat from the outdoor air or ground and then distributing warm air directly into a building's heating system. This type of system is typically less expensive to install than a gas-powered system, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to save money on their heating bills. The temperature of the outdoor air or ground is crucial in determining the efficiency of these systems.

One advantage of an air-to-air and gas system is that it can also be used for cooling in the summer months while maintaining a consistent temperature, making it a versatile option for year-round comfort. However, this type of system may not be suitable for larger properties or those with existing heating systems that cannot accommodate warm outdoor air distribution. A ground source system may be a better option for those looking to minimize their environmental impact.

Air-to-Water Systems

Air-to-water systems, also known as outdoor air source heat pumps, work by extracting heat from the outside air and using it to warm water. This type of system is more efficient than an air-to-air system and can provide greater energy savings in the long run. Ground source heat pumps, which extract heat from the ground, are even more efficient at heating water, but require installation of underground pipes. Gas boilers can also be used to heat water, but are less environmentally friendly and can be more expensive in the long run. The temperature of the extracted heat is crucial to the efficiency of the system, with lower temperatures resulting in less efficient heating.

While a ground source air-to-water system may have a higher initial installation cost, it can provide significant savings on heating bills over time. This type of system can also be used for cooling in the summer months by circulating cool water through underfloor pipes. Gas boilers can be used to supplement the system during extreme outdoor temperature drops.

When choosing between the two types of systems, there are several factors to consider. These include the size of the property, the existing heating system, and the climate in the area. For example, an air-to-air system may be more suitable for smaller properties or those with ductwork already in place, while an air-to-water system may be better suited for larger properties or those with radiant floor heating. Gas and ground source systems are also options to consider, especially for outdoor installations.

Efficiency and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are highly efficient in converting energy into heat, resulting in significant energy savings for households. The efficiency of an ASHP is measured by its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), which indicates the amount of cooling or heating produced per unit of energy consumed. ASHPs are installed outdoor and do not rely on gas for operation.

How to Use Air Source Heat Pump Efficiently

To use an air source heat pump efficiently, it is important to properly maintain it. Regular cleaning and inspection of ventilation and ductwork can help maintain its efficiency and prolong its lifespan. It is also recommended to set the thermostat at a moderate temperature, as excessive heating or cooling can reduce the efficiency of the ASHP.

What is the Most Efficient Way to Run an Air Source Heat Pump?

The most efficient way to run an air source heat pump is by using it for both heating and cooling functions. This double duty function increases its efficiency and potential savings for households. Advances in technology have made ASHPs even more efficient, with some models boasting SEER ratings above 20.

How to Service Air Source Heat Pump

To service an air source heat pump during the heating season, it is recommended to schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional technician. This includes checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical connections, cleaning filters, and inspecting ventilation and ductwork to ensure efficient space heating.

How Long Does an Air Source Heat Pump Last?

With proper maintenance, an air source heat pump can last up to 15 years or more. However, regular servicing is essential for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan.

Heating and Cooling Ratings of Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps are an efficient and cost-effective way to heat and cool your home. These systems have two ratings that measure their efficiency during the heating and cooling seasons: the heating rating and the cooling rating.

Heating Season Rating

The heating rating, also known as the HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor), measures how efficiently the air source heat pump heats your home during the winter months. A higher HSPF means that the system is more efficient at converting electricity into heat, which can save you money on your energy bills.

However, it's important to note that outdoor temperatures can affect the heating mode of an air source heat pump. As temperatures drop, the system may become less efficient at heating your home. Therefore, it's essential to choose a unit with a high HSPF rating for colder climates.

Cooling Season Rating

The cooling rating, also known as SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), measures how efficiently an air source heat pump cools your home during warmer months. A higher SEER means that the system is more efficient at converting electricity into cool air.

One of the benefits of air source heat pumps is their ability to provide both heating and cooling in one unit. This makes them a versatile option for homeowners who want year-round comfort without having to install separate systems for each season.

Noise Level During Defrost Cycle

During defrost cycles, air source heat pumps may produce more noise than usual due to their operation. However, this is normal and should not be cause for concern.

To minimize noise levels during defrost cycles, make sure that your air conditioning unit, whether it's a traditional air conditioner or ductless heat pump with heat pump technology, is installed in a location where noise won't be an issue. Regular maintenance can help keep your system running smoothly and reduce noise levels overall.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does an air source heat pump cost? The cost of an air source heat pump varies depending on the size of your home and the specific unit you choose. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $5,000 and $10,000 for a central air source heat pump.

  • What size air source heat pump do I need? The size of your air source heat pump will depend on the square footage of your home, as well as other factors such as insulation levels and local climate. A professional HVAC technician can help you determine the right size unit for your needs.

  • How much does it cost to run an air source heat pump? The cost of running an air source heat pump will depend on a variety of factors, including local energy rates and how often you use the system. However, many homeowners find that these systems are more energy-efficient than traditional heating and cooling methods, which can lead to lower energy bills overall.

  • How much space does an air source heat pump need? Air source heat pumps require outdoor space for installation, but they typically take up less space than other types of HVAC systems. The exact amount of space needed will depend on the specific unit you choose and your property's layout.

  • What is the average cost of an air source heat pump installation? The average cost of installing an air source heat pump will vary based on several factors like location, house size, type of system installed etc. However according to EnergySage.

Air source heat pumps in cold climates and refrigerant alternatives

Air source heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular as a heating and cooling solution for homes and businesses. They work by extracting heat from outdoor air, even in cold temperatures, and transferring it inside to provide warmth. In this article, we will discuss the effectiveness of air source heat pumps in cold climates and explore alternative refrigerants that have lower global warming potential.

How do air source heat pumps work?

Air source heat pumps consist of an outdoor unit with an evaporator and a heat exchanger coil, which extracts heat from outside air, and an indoor unit that distributes the heated air throughout the building. The outdoor unit contains a compressor that compresses the extracted heat to increase its temperature before it is transferred indoors.

Are air source heat pumps effective in cold climates?

Air source heat pumps can extract heat from outdoor air even when temperatures are as low as -15°C. This makes them effective in cold climates where traditional air conditioners may struggle to provide adequate heating. Unlike traditional air conditioners, which can only cool indoor spaces, air source heat pumps can also be used for space heating.

What are refrigerant alternatives for air source heat pumps?

Traditional refrigerants like R-410A have high global warming potential (GWP), meaning they contribute significantly to climate change. As such, there has been a push towards using alternative refrigerants with lower GWP in HVAC systems like air source heat pumps.

One such alternative for air conditioning is carbon dioxide (CO2) which has a GWP of 1 compared to R-410A's GWP of 2,088. CO2 is non-toxic and non-flammable, making it safer than some traditional refrigerants for air source heat pump systems. However, CO2 requires higher pressures to operate effectively in ambient air than other refrigerants which can lead to increased energy consumption for air conditioner.

Another alternative is hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) which have a GWP of less than 1. HFOs are non-toxic, non-flammable and have low ozone depletion potential. They are also highly efficient, making them an attractive option for air source heat pumps.

Energy Pricing Options for Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps are an excellent option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy bills while still enjoying a comfortable living space. In this article, we will discuss various pricing options for air source heat pumps and how they can impact your overall energy costs.

Electricity Rates

Electricity rates can have a significant impact on the cost savings of using an air source heat pump. It's important to understand that these units use electricity to power the compressor, fan, and other components. However, Energy Star certified models can help save on electrical energy usage by up to 30% compared to non-certified models.

Efficient Option

Compared to natural gas or fuel oil, air source heat pumps have lower carbon emissions and can help reduce utility bills. They work by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it indoors to provide warmth. This process is much more efficient than electric resistance heating, which uses electricity directly to generate heat.

DTE Energy Incentives

DTE Energy offers incentives for installing air source heat pumps in Michigan. These incentives make them a cost-effective choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy usage. The program offers rebates of up to $1,500 per unit installed and provides free home assessments to determine if your home is eligible.

Water Heating

In addition to providing heating for your home, air source heat pumps can also be used for water heating. This means you can enjoy hot showers and baths without worrying about high energy bills. Water heating typically accounts for around 18% of a household's total energy consumption, so switching to an air source heat pump can result in significant savings.

Natural Gas vs Fuel Oil

Natural gas and fuel oil are common options for heating homes in colder climates. However, both of these fuels come with their own set of drawbacks. Natural gas prices can fluctuate depending on supply and demand while fuel oil prices tend to be more stable but can still be expensive. Air source heat pumps provide a reliable and cost-effective option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy bills.

Electrical Energy Usage

It's important to note that while air source heat pumps use electricity, they are still a much more efficient option compared to electric resistance heating. This means you can save money on your energy bills while still enjoying a comfortable living space.

Tax credits and rebates for air source heat pumps

Air source heat pumps are a great way to save money on your energy bill while also reducing your carbon footprint. One of the best things about air source heat pumps is that they can qualify you for rebates and tax credits that can help offset the cost of installation.

Rebates from Department of Energy Resources (DOER)

If you're a Massachusetts resident, you may be eligible for rebates from the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) if you install an air source heat pump. These rebates can be up to $1,875 per unit, depending on the size and efficiency of the system.

To qualify for these rebates, your air source heat pump must meet certain criteria. It must be installed by a participating contractor, and it must have a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) rating of at least 9.0 for single-zone systems or 8.5 for multi-zone systems.

In addition to state-level rebates, homeowners who install an air source heat pump may also be eligible for federal tax credits. The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $300 for qualifying air source heat pumps installed before December 31, .

To qualify for this tax credit, your air source heat pump must meet certain criteria. It must have an HSPF rating of at least 8.5 and an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating of at least 12.5.

Rebates from Clean Energy Center (CEC)

The Clean Energy Center (CEC) provides rebates for both commercial and residential installations of air source heat pumps in Massachusetts. These rebates vary depending on the size and efficiency of the system but can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per unit.

To qualify for these rebates, your air source heat pump must meet certain criteria. It must be installed by a participating contractor, and it must have an HSPF rating of at least 9.0 for single-zone systems or 8.5 for multi-zone systems.

Factors Affecting Savings

The amount of money you can save on your energy bill with an air source heat pump depends on several factors, including climate, insulation, and usage patterns. In colder climates, air source heat pumps may not be as efficient as other heating systems, so it's important to do your research and make sure an air source heat pump is the right choice for your home.

Insulation is also an important factor in determining how much you can save with an air source heat pump. If your home is poorly insulated, you may not see as much savings as someone who has a well-insulated home.

Finally, your usage patterns will also affect how much you can save with an air source heat pump. If you use your system sparingly or only during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower, you may be able to save even more money.

How to Learn More

If you're interested in installing an air source heat pump and want to learn more about available rebates and incentives in Massachusetts, there are several resources available to help you get started.

One option is to contact your local utility company or the Mass Save program. These programs offer free energy assessments and can help you determine whether an air source heat pump is the right choice for your home.

You can also check out the websites of the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and Clean Energy Center (CEC) to learn more about available rebates and incentives in Massachusetts for heat exchanger coils, useful heat, air conditioning, and ambient air.

Testing Air Source Heat Pumps for Your Building

Building owners looking to install an air source heat pump should test the system before installation. Testing ensures that the heat pump is compatible with the building's heating needs, and it can help identify any modifications necessary for optimal performance.

Why Test Air Source Heat Pumps?

Air source heat pumps are a popular choice for heating buildings due to their energy efficiency and low emissions. However, not all buildings are suitable for this type of heating system. Before investing in an air source heat pump, building owners should consider testing their building's heating needs to determine if it is a good fit.

Contractors can perform tests on air source heat pumps to determine their efficiency and effectiveness in providing comfort for the building's occupants. These tests can also identify any issues with resistance heating systems that may need to be replaced or modified to work properly with an air source heat pump.

Who Can Test Air Source Heat Pumps?

Contractors who specialize in HVAC systems are qualified to test air source heat pumps. Building owners can search online for contractors near them who offer these services. It is important to choose a contractor with experience in testing and installing air source heat pumps.

What Happens During Testing?

During testing, the contractor will evaluate the building's current heating system and assess its compatibility with an air source heat pump. The contractor will also evaluate the size of the unit needed to adequately heat the building and identify any modifications required for proper installation.

Testing typically involves measuring airflow rates, temperature differentials, electrical input/output, and overall performance of the unit under various conditions. The results of these tests help inform decisions about whether or not to install an air source heat pump and what modifications may be necessary for optimal performance.

Buying Guide for Air Source Heat Pumps

If you're considering buying an air source heat pump, there are several key factors to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to understand the benefits of using air source heat pumps. These include reduced energy bills, lower carbon emissions and improved home comfort.

Next, it's essential to choose the right type of air source heat pump system for your needs. There are two main types: air-to-water and air-to-air systems. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your heating and cooling requirements.

Efficiency and maintenance are also crucial considerations when purchasing an air source heat pump. Look for models with high efficiency ratings to ensure maximum energy savings. Regular maintenance will help keep your system running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

When comparing different air conditioning models, pay attention to their heating and cooling ratings. This will give you a better idea of how well traditional air conditioners perform in different ambient air temperatures and conditions.

The company is the world’s best Commercial Air Source Heat Pump supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

If you live in a cold climate, it's important to choose an air conditioning model that can operate efficiently even at low temperatures. You may also want to consider refrigerant alternatives that offer better performance in colder weather. Traditional air conditioners may struggle to transfer heat energy in such conditions, so a heat exchanger is a good option to consider.

Energy pricing options can also affect the cost-effectiveness of your air source heat pump. Look into time-of-use tariffs or other pricing plans that could help you save money on energy bills.

Finally, don't forget about tax credits and rebates that may be available for installing an air source heat pump. Be sure to check with your local authorities or utility providers for information on any incentives that may apply in your area.

In conclusion, purchasing an air source heat pump requires careful consideration of several key factors including efficiency, maintenance requirements, heating/cooling ratings, climate suitability, energy pricing options and potential tax credits/rebates. By keeping these factors in mind and doing thorough research before making a purchase decision, you can ensure that you get the best possible value from your investment.

Heat Pump Buyers Guide - Everything You Need to Know

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a heating and cooling device that transfers thermal energy in and out of buildings through the use of refrigerant. Simply put, during the summer months, thermal energy is transferred outside to cool down the house, and during the winter months, thermal energy is transferred into the home to heat the house. 

 

Heat pumps transfer thermal energy from one desired location to another. If you want to heat your home, a heat pump will transfer heat energy from outside into your home, and vice versa for when you're looking to cool your home. A basic thermal engineering concept explains how this works and simply put, it's that heat always wants to flow from areas of high energy to areas of low energy. This means that hot air (exothermic) is going to flow or be attracted toward cool air (endothermic). For example, if you were to take a glass of ice water outside on a hot summer day, the ice would melt. This is because there's more thermal energy (a higher temperature) in the air outside than that of the ice cubes inside the glass. Thus, that higher thermal energy is then attracted. It's simple, but this is the basis of how heat pumps work. The graphic below accurately illustrates the flow of thermal energy. 

The Compressor

 

The compressor is responsible for heating the refrigerant in the refrigerant lines. At the beginning of the compression cycle, the cool refrigerant enters the compressor at a lower temperature, and it's passed through the compressor. As it's passed through the compressor, it's heated up and turned into a high-pressure, high-temperature vapor. This high pressure, high-temperature vapor then is pumped into the house, and the warm thermal energy is then distributed through the house through an indoor heat exchanger (a.k.a an indoor air handler).  

The Expansion Valve

 

The expansion valve is responsible for cooling the refrigerant. As the refrigerant passes through the expansion valve, the refrigerant is expanded in volume and cooled down into a low pressure, low temperature, part liquid, and vapor mixture. This low pressure, low temperature, liquid, and vapor mixture is then pumped outside to the outdoor heat exchanger where it collects outdoor thermal energy. The cycle then repeats. 

Types of Heat pumps

 

There are three types of heat pumps. There are air, ground, or water source heat pumps. Let's take a look at the way each of them works. 

Air Source

 

Air source heat pumps are the easiest and the quickest to install. It looks like a normal AC unit, and it can generate both hot water and hot air. Some units also incorporate a reversing valve and a cooling mode to provide air conditioning as well. There is a unit installed outside that will create some noise from the fans and the compressors. The unit also needs to circulate air so it shouldn't be boxed in, or else the unit is going to be trying to extract energy from the recirculated air that you just extracted energy from. These are the cheapest heat pumps that you can install, but they are the least efficient when compared to ground or water heat pumps. This is because air has a lower density than soil or water.  

Cost - $7,000 - $11,000 

(Cost varies on complexity, location, and size) 

Ground Source (two types)

 

More commonly used for hot water production, but some units can be reversed to provide cooling. A ground source heat pump uses thermal energy that is embedded in the ground from the sun. They tend to be more efficient than air-source pumps because the soil has a much higher density and heat capacity than that of the air. Although this is far more efficient, it requires extensive excavation underground to set up refrigerant lines. Ground source heat pumps are often used during construction to limit cost.  

Horizontal Ground Source Pumps

 

Horizontal ground source pumps are buried ~3-7ft in the ground and they typically extract 10-30 watts of energy per 3.3ft of pipe. Horizontal ground source pumps require a lot of room to be installed. This is mainly why they are installed during the construction of the house. 

Cost: ~$13,000 - $24,000 

(Cost varies on complexity, location, and size) 

Vertical Ground Source Pumps

 

If there is less room on the property to build, vertical ground source pumps are an alternative. With vertical pumps, holes are drilled between 50 - 500 ft into the ground, and they typically extract about 10 - 50 watts of energy per meter of pipe.  

Cost: ~$18,000 - $32,000 

(Cost varies on complexity, location, and size) 

Water Source

 

Water source heat pumps are the least common type of heat pumps because they require immediate access to a lake or river. There are two types of water source heat pumps. There are open-loop water source heat pumps, and there are closed-loop water source heat pumps 

Closed Loop 

 

As implied by the name, this is a closed-loop that is recirculated throughout the system. This system uses a water and antifreeze mixture to cycle around and transfer the thermal energy. 

Cost: ~ $12,000 - $30,000 

(Cost varies on complexity, location, and size) 

Open loop

 

Alternatively, open-source loops pull in water from the lake or river, extract its thermal energy, and then release the water away from the extraction point. Open-loop heat pumps typically have strict permissions depending on your location, and for good reason. If your system were to leak, the water and antifreeze mixture would be toxic to the wildlife inside the lake or river. Although this has more potential to be dangerous to wildlife, it is more efficient than both air and ground heat pumps. The pipes are constantly surrounded by water energy that is constantly replaced by the current. They generate 20 - 60 watts of energy per 3 square feet of water surface. These are also easier to install than ground source pumps  

Cost: ~ $10,000 - $15,000 

(Cost varies on complexity, location, and size) 

Which one should you buy?

 

When it comes to buying a heat pump, it comes down to your budget and some preexisting factors about your property. The heat pump that will be the best fit for your situation comes down to two main factors. Is the property being built, or is it near a lake or river? The graphic below goes through the thought process most people take when purchasing a heat pump. 

At the end of the day, it comes down to how much you would like to spend, and what would be best for your property. Properties normally fall into one of three categories, and each heat pump has its advantages for each property.  

  • Existing Property 

     

    • With an existing property, the best heat pump for you is likely going to be an Air Source Heat Pump. They are the cheapest and easiest to install heat pumps, and they are far more efficient than burning oil. Air source heat pumps are between 175-300% efficient whereas oil is only 85% efficient. Geothermal heat pumps aren't normally a great fit for existing properties because geothermal pumps require extensive excavation, and properties don't always have the room to support this excavation after they're built. This is also under the assumption that there is no immediate water source available. 

       

  • Under Construction (or planning to be constructed) 

     

    • If you are planning on building a house, geothermal heat pumps are likely the heat pump for you. They can be expensive to put in after a house is built, but incorporating the cost of the pump in construction can save you a lot of money in the long run. Geothermal heats pump can more efficiently extract thermal energy from the ground than air source heat pumps can from the air. This is because the ground is denser than the air. These heat pumps are between 300-600% efficient whereas air source heat pumps are between 175-300% efficient. 

       

  • Properties with immediate access to a river or lake 

     

    • If your property has immediate access to a river or lake, then a water source heat pump is likely going to be the choice for you. Water source heat pumps are the most efficient heat pumps, and they typically are less expensive than geothermal heat pumps. A water source heat pump is going to be between 400-600% efficient whereas a geothermal heat pump will be 300-600% efficient. Although water source heat pumps generally are less expensive than geothermal heat pumps, they tend to be the least common heat pumps. Simply because it is far less likely for a property to have access to a river or lake. 

       

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