Heat pump systems have become quite popular over the years. Thanks to advancements in technology, these systems have progressively gotten better at producing heat in cold temperatures. Cold Climate heat pumps are the perfect choice for Canadians, when combined with a high efficient gas furnace because of their ability to withstand freezing cold winters and hot summers. They are an excellent choice for any Canadian homeowner. But what exactly is a heat pump?
A heat pump is a dual-working system. A heat pump can both cool and heat your home. The process in which the system can do this stems from using refrigerant, metal coils and a fan. Instead of using burning fuel, the heat pump can absorb heat from the outside and relocate it inside the home during the cooler/ shoulder season months. Alternatively, in the summer/hot months, the heat pump will take in warm air and transfer it outside the residence. This form of air transfer is called an air source heat pump.
Alternatives to the air-source heat pump are the air-to-water and ground-source heat pump (geothermal heat pump). In Alberta, you will typically find ducted air-source heat pumps or ductless mini-split air-source heat pumps. A ducted air source heat pump is used if there are ducts previously existing inside the home. Ground-source heat pumps will transfer the air inside the house to the ground outside and vice-versa. For Albertans, the best choice is to combine your high-efficiency furnace and air source heat pump with solar panels so, most of the year, you can heat and/or cool your home for virtually no cost!
The air-source heat pump is the most popular choice for heating and cooling systems. These systems are even in several famous news articles, such as The New York Times and BBC. Why are they so popular, and why should you consider an upgrade? Here are the top 5 reasons to upgrade today.
1. Eco-Friendly.
The use of fossil fuels is one of the leading causes of greenhouse gas emissions. Luckily, heat pumps use electricity, unlike gas furnaces. With the production of electrical energy becoming increasingly eco-friendly around Canada, your home can decrease its carbon footprint drastically.
COP (coefficient of performance) is the term used when determining efficiency and environmental impact by calculating the heat transferred vs. energy used. For a heat pump, their COP ranges from 2.4 – 4.0. For every four units of heat out, only one unit of electricity is used.
2. Heat Pump Systems Improve Air Quality & Home Comfort.
The air quality in your home is essential for your home comfort and overall health and safety. Both mini-split and central air source heat pumps can maintain the air quality in your home and are an excellent choice for homes in Edmonton. These units will clean indoor air year-round, even during low air quality periods. Air quality can drop because of several reasons, including road cleaning season, springtime allergies and wildfire smoke. Having a heat pump can help reduce the airborne irritants that occur during this period of time. Additionally, by keeping doors and windows closed during spans of low air quality allows fewer irritants in the air and will increase your home environment.
3. Easy Installation.
An amazing feature of the heat pump is its customizability. These systems can work in virtually any home, and the installation is similar to an air conditioner. If your home already has ductwork with your existing central forced air heating systems. If you don’t have ductwork in your home, there are ductless split systems that work with non-duct homes too.
4. Heat Pumps are Efficient Even in Canada’s Cold Climates.
As any Canadian knows, our winter temperatures can be almost unbearable. It’s crucial to have an efficient and reliable working heating system. Many Canadians use fossil fuel-based heaters, but these are not the only option for capable heaters for the colder months. In the past, most heat pumps could not withstand anything colder than -10 ℃. Now because of advancements in technology, there are cold-climate heat pumps.
Cold-climate heat pumps have been tested in Canada since the beginning of the 2010s. They have been shown to work in weather up to -30 degrees with high proficiency. Heat strips can be added to your system to help ensure they keep your home warm even in colder climates.
Another benefit to the heat pump system is with a proper cold-climate heat pump installed, Canadians can be eligible for a grant.
5. Applicable for Canada Greener Homes Grant.
A fantastic feature and benefit of using a heat pump is qualifying for the Canada Greener Homes Grant. Before installing a heat pump, give us a call, and we can help you start your application process with the government of Canada. If the heat pump you purchased is from Canada and is installed by a professional, you could be eligible for a grant.
Find a Heat Pump Installer in Edmonton Near You!
The professionals at Ignite Heating and Air Conditioning have fantastic options for the type of heat pump and the installation process of the heat pump. As a local Canadian business, they understand the importance of a proficient heating and cooling system. Contact them today to start your grant process and invest in your home’s eco-friendly journey.