An air source heat pump can offer your home efficient heating and cooling. When properly installed, an air-source heat pump can provide up to three times the heat energy to a home than it consumes in electrical power. This is possible because, unlike combustion heating systems, heat pumps transfer heat rather than converting it from fuel.
Air-source heat pumps have been used in practically all sections of Canada for many years, except areas with extended periods of subfreezing weather. However, in recent years, air-source heat pump technology has evolved to the point where it now provides a viable space heating alternative in colder climates.
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How do Air Source Heat Pumps Works?
Air-source heat pumps utilize ambient air to heat homes and can be used for hot water and space heating. The process involves gathering and absorbing heat from the outside air into a loop with refrigerant fluid. The heat is then extracted from the air and passed through a compressor, where it undergoes compression, leading to a rise in temperature. The heat exchanger transfers the heat through pipes to various locations, such as radiators, underfloor heating systems, hot water circuits, or air conditioners within the house.
Understanding the Various Air Source Heat Pump Types
There are two main types of air-source heat pumps based on how they distribute heat: air-to-air and air-to-water systems.
Air-to-air heat pumps absorb heat from the outside air and directly transfer it into the home via a fan system, effectively heating a room.
On the other hand, air-to-water heat pumps absorb heat from the outside air and transfer it via the central heating system to provide hot water heating, radiator heating, or underfloor heating in indoor spaces.
To pick the best air source heat pump for your home, consult a professional heating contractor in Mission who can assess your needs and provide a quotation. You can find the best installation deal for your specific requirements by comparing quotes from multiple installers.
Energy Efficiency Explored: Pros and Cons of Air Source Heat Pump
Advantages of Air Source Heat Pumps
Air source heat pumps offer numerous benefits, including:
Low Carbon Footprint: ASHPs are environmentally friendly, emitting fewer carbon emissions as they efficiently heat or extraordinary homes using outside air. They have a high energy conversion rate, with only 1 unit of electricity used for every 3-4 units of energy produced.
Cost Savings: By switching to air-source heat pumps, you can significantly reduce your annual fuel bill, particularly if transitioning from electric, coal, or LPG systems.
Dual Functionality: ASHPs can be used for heating in the winter and cooling in the summer, depending on the model.
Space and Hot Water Heating: An ASHP can effectively heat water if the flow temperature is around 131°F, providing space heating with a flow temperature of 95°F
High SCOP: With a usual COP of 3.2 when the outside temperature is above 44.6°F, air source heat pumps have a high seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP), making them efficient all year.
Easy Installation and Low Maintenance: Air source heat pumps can be quickly installed, often within two days, without extensive digging like ground source heat pumps. They require little maintenance, with annual servicing by a qualified heating engineer and occasional cleaning of filters and refrigerant level checks.
Long Lifespan: With proper maintenance, air source heat pumps can operate for up to 20 years; some models even last up to 25 years.
No Fuel Storage Needed: ASHPs use the outside air as their fuel source, removing the need for fuel storage and additional fees for fuel deliveries.
Disadvantages of Air Source Heat Pumps
While ASHPs offer flexibility and costs, there are some downsides to consider:
Lower Heat Supply Compared to Boilers: Air source heat pumps may require larger heat-emitting surfaces, such as larger radiators, to achieve the same amount of space heating as oil and natural gas boilers.
Additional Spending for Underfloor Heating: To maximize the efficiency of ASHPs, they are often paired with underfloor heating systems, leading to higher installation costs if you still need to put such a system in place.
Need for a Well-Insulated Home: ASHPs require a well-insulated home, similar to other heating systems, to function effectively.
Lower Efficiency in Sub-Zero Temperatures: ASHPs lose efficiency in frigid temperatures as their heat output decreases with decreasing outside air temperature.
Comparative Savings with Cheap Mains Gas: The difference between mains gas and electricity (for powering an ASHP) may be minor if your mains gas is inexpensive. However, future savings will likely improve with increasing focus on heat pump installations and low-carbon incentives.
Noise Levels: Air source heat pumps can produce noise while operating, comparable to regular air conditioners or moderate rainfall. However, ongoing advancements aim to reduce noise levels.
Proper Planning for ASHP: Preparing Your Home for Energy Efficiency
Before investing in an air source heat pump, prepare your home accordingly to ensure a successful and cost-effective installation:
Adequate Space: Ensure there is enough space for the outdoor module of the ASHP, whether mounted on a wall or directly on the ground. Sufficient space around the system promotes proper airflow.
Insulation: Add proper wall and loft insulation and draught-proofing to enhance the efficiency of your air source heat pump.
Obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Obtain an EPC to assess your home’s energy efficiency before contacting a certified heat pump installer. This rating will help the installer suggest the most suitable options.
Consider Your Current Heating System: If you use electricity or coal for heating, transitioning to an ASHP will lead to faster cost savings. Additionally, pair an air-to-water heat pump with underfloor heating or warm air heating systems that require lower water temperatures for better efficiency.
Explore Complementary Options: Consider combining your ASHP with other building work, solar panel heating, or renewable energy solutions to reduce running costs and carbon footprint further while providing backup energy.
Ask the Right Questions: When choosing a heat pump installer in Mission, inquire about their abilities and experience to ensure a seamless installation process.
Trusted and Proven: The Top Heat Pump Brands Recommended by Professionals
Several reliable heat pump brands are available in the market, offering top-notch performance and customer satisfaction:
Carrier Heat Pumps: Known for their trusted national reputation, Carrier provides a range of options for every budget, accompanied by an excellent warranty. Their heat pumps have a SEER rating of 13 – 20 and can reduce energy bills significantly.
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Lennox Heat Pumps: With a century-old legacy, Lennox provides precision and comfort with its 14 – 23.5 SEER-rated heat pumps. Their SL25XPV model offers unmatched performance and quiet operation, backed by a 10-year warranty.
Trane Heat Pumps: Trane’s products are praised for their utility bill savings, low operating noise, and high SEER ratings of 14.8 – 20.5. Trane’s premium heat pump can reduce energy bills by up to 50%.
Rheem Heat Pumps: Rheem’s products are known for their trusted and stable brand reputation, averaging a lifespan of 15 years. With SEER ratings ranging from 12 – 21.95, Rheem heat pumps offer modest pricing compared to premium brands.
American Standard Heat Pumps: Offering durable and trouble-free heat pumps with low operating noise, American Standard’s products have SEER ratings of 14.8 – 20.5. They provide a reliable heating and cooling solution backed by a 10-year warranty.
Mitsubishi Electric Heat Pumps: Industry leaders in Cold Climate pumps, known for their Hyper-heat technology, and eligible for the Canada Greener Homes Grant. SEER Ratings 33.1.
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Investing in Comfort: Air Source Heat Pump Installation Costs
The average air source heat pump installation costs between $2,799 and $7,255. The total cost depends on factors such as the number of indoor units required, the size of the home, and the need for ductwork replacement or installation. For each indoor air handler unit, the cost typically ranges between $2,580 and $4,739.
Reliable Solutions in Mission BC: Rely on Our Trusted Pros
If you’re seeking an efficient and eco-friendly solution for your heating needs in Mission, look no further than Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration Ltd. We are:
- The leading heating contractor in Mission.
- We are offering top-notch expertise in air source heat pump installation.
- We do Repairs and maintenance on all brands of heat pumps.
With our team of skilled professionals and a commitment to delivering exceptional service, we guarantee a seamless installation process that ensures your system operates at peak performance. Embracing the benefits of air-source heat pumps will keep your home comfortable all year round and contribute to a greener future.
Don’t hesitate to take the next step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective heating solution. Contact Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration Ltd today at +1-778-522-5669 to schedule your air source heat pump installation and join the growing community of environmentally conscious homeowners in Mission.
