Air source heat pumps absorb natural warmth from the air outside and gently distribute it throughout your home. They are the most efficient type of home heating system and also offer the added benefits of central air conditioning and summer dehumidification.
A heat pump provides year-round climate control, producing even, comfortable heat in winter and air conditioning in summer. It dehumidifies too, reducing mould and excess moisture. A heat pump also filters the air to reduce irritants that could aggravate breathing problems. And it’s a non-combustible heat source, so it uses no flames, no fuel and produces no fumes.
Heat pumps are as affordable as any other heating system. For every unit of energy used, they can produce over three units of heat. This efficiency makes them cost-effective. In fact, you can heat and cool your home for about the same annual cost as other heat-only systems.
The system works on a simple principle. The heat pump absorbs heat from the outside air in winter and circulates it in your home through ductwork. In the summer it works in reverse, removing heat and humidity from your home and releasing it outside.
The heat pump meets the full heating requirements of the house at an outside temperature of -7oC or warmer. This is commonly referred to as the balance point. A back-up heating source provides supplementary heat at temperatures below the balance point.
The back-up heating source depends on whether the unit is an add-on or all-electric. Add-on heat pumps are designed to be used in conjunction with another heating system such as an oil or electric furnace. An all-electric air source heat pump comes equipped with its own electric back-up built in.
If the heat pump is all-electric, the electric back-up source automatically provides supplementary heat as required, maximizing efficiency and saving money. A homeowner can see even greater savings by combining a heat pump with electric thermal storage and taking advantage of Nova Scotia Power’s time-of-day rate.
If the heat pump is an add-on, it will shut off if the outside temperature drops below the balance point, and only the furnace will heat the home. Adding a heat pump to a forced-air furnace will optimize the efficiency of the heating system.
A properly installed heat pump will maximize the efficiency of your system and provide years of heating and cooling comfort. Nova Scotia Power can recommend certified installers and quality heat pumps that are backed by comprehensive warranties. Once installed, arranging for a qualified firm to service the heat pump will keep it operating at peak efficiency and extend the life of the components. Annual service plans are available from heat pump contractors for approximately the same cost as furnace service plans.
Nova Scotia Power makes owning a heat pump convenient and affordable with easy on-bill financing.
Call us at 428-NSPI (6774) in HRM or 1-800-428-NSPI outside of HRM, weekdays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. or Saturdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.