Heat pump installation has become a trending topic of discussion among heating contractors and homeowners alike. If you aren't sure where to get started with understanding heat pumps, here is a guide to frequently asked questions about this heating system installation.

What Does a Heat Pump Do?

A heat pump is a device that is designed to bring heat into your home through natural means. It condenses heat from the environment and then pushes that heated air into your home. It can also push colder air out of the home. Since you aren't relying on mechanical heating for any of this, it saves you a lot of money by reducing your electricity or gas bill.

What Types are Available?

A traditional heating pump takes its energy from the surrounding air temperatures outside of your home. There is also the option of a geothermal heat pump, which takes heat from the underground reserves of heat. Thus, a hole must be bored into the ground to collect heat.

Do I Have to Get Rid of My Furnace?

A heat pump can sometimes replace your heater. Other times, you simply have the heat pump to offset your heating needs. The system will do what it can, and then you have your furnace to fall back on in case your heating needs are more than the heat pump can provide.

What Is the Installation Process?

The heat pump involves installing a condenser outside of your home to collect heat and condense it. Then, your technician installs piping that brings the heated air into your home. An air handler is what releases heated air into your space. Your heating contractor will help you plan out the location of this installation, since the condenser and air handler should be close together on the inside and outside of your home. Another part of installation may involve disguising the cabling for your heat pump with paint or paneling.

What Is the Cost?

Now, this is a question that is difficult to answer without knowing the details of your specific case. Heating system installation with heat pumps will certainly cost several thousand dollars, but it could cost more based on the type of heat pump installation (geothermal heat pumps cost more), the terrain under your home (i.e., how much work it takes to excavate to install piping) and other factors. It's best to approach a heating contractor to have them give you a personalized quote.

For more information and options, talk with professional HVAC contractors, such as those at Pell City Heating & Cooling Inc.