Transitioning to a Heat Pump - My Experience
- Published on Sunday November 10th, 2024
Author: Morgan G.
My experience getting a heat pump has been overwhelmingly positive, and I highly recommend it to anyone considering an HVAC upgrade. There were several reasons for my decision to switch to a heat pump.
- Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependence: My primary motivation was to minimize reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute significantly to climate change, as well as reducing the environmental impacts associated with the extraction, refining, and transportation of natural gas. As a participant in Ameren's Pure Power wind energy program, I was paying for wind energy, so anything I could electrify in my home meant less fossil fuel consumption overall. The case would be the same for anyone else who participates in a solar or wind program or has rooftop solar. As Ameren moves away from coal generation, electricity will become a cleaner and cleaner source of energy for everyone, reducing impacts to climate and other environmental conditions. Heating and cooling are typically the largest energy consumers in a household, so by upgrading to a heat pump, I could significantly reduce both energy usage and emissions.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although heat pumps can be pricier up front to purchase and install than traditional systems, it was more efficient than the older systems, which lead to some energy cost savings. Also, I was able to get off natural gas, the prices of which are more subject to unpredictable geopolitical and environmental factors, which can cause billing spikes. I saw my bills stay the same or get cheaper depending on the month, and especially enjoy a cost benefit when gas prices are high.
- Personal Health & Safety: I was uncomfortable with natural gas in my home due to concerns about gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, and managing pilot lights. Even if these risks were extremely low, transitioning to electric heating made me feel safer.
I installed my heat pump in 2021 when my gas furnace was deemed "compromised" during a seasonal inspection and needed replacement. I had purchased my house at the end of 2020 and lived with a gas furnace and electric air conditioner HVAC system for the first year. I knew I wanted to consider electrifying and getting off gas heating, and looked into a heat pump. The gas furnace and air conditioning system were both from the 1980s, and the AC unit had a very low Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating of around 5 or 6. A heat pump would replace both the furnace and AC unit, while also offering an efficient solution for heating and cooling.
One word of caution I would give to others considering a heat pump is to be prepared for pushback from HVAC installers. They sell what they know and what they have in stock, so they may recommend conventional technologies over heat pumps. Despite expressing my interest in a heat pump, some contractors still suggested I replace my old gas furnace with a new gas furnace. With heat pumps on the rise as an energy efficient climate solution, I advise others to stand firm in their choice and critically evaluate the reasoning behind recommendations. An HVAC system can work for the next 20 years. If you care about an energy- and emissions-efficient long-term choice, don’t let a little more up-front cost or a contractor pushing older technologies get in the way of a long term benefit. In the end, I was pleased with my chosen contractor, who helped me navigate available rebates and tax incentives. For contractors interested in learning more about heat pumps, the DOE has a new tool to help with selection and installation of heat pumps.
Keep in mind, the quality of installation significantly impacts a heat pump’s efficiency and longevity, so the experience of the company who installs it matters for the overall functionality of the system over its lifetime. Be sure to choose a company to work with carefully, and work with them closely so they have accountability for their work. I received quotes from three companies, some of which I found through Angi (formerly Angie’s List) and one from Ameren’s website, which provided ratings for contractors based on their ability to work with utility rebates. Ultimately, I selected a contractor from Ameren’s site due to their strong rating and familiarity with available incentives. Although cold-climate heat pumps can work in low temperatures, installers here will likely include an auxiliary heat kit to kick on when it gets really cold. Whether or not this is listed explicitly on their bid, it is commonly done in our region.
It’s also important to note that whether you have a ducted HVAC system, a ductless mini-split system, or no artificial heating or cooling at all in a space, there is a heat pump for you! They come in both ducted and ductless ‘mini-split’ options.
Since installing the heat pump, I haven’t noticed a difference in overall home comfort. While the initial investment may be a little higher, the long-term benefits are substantial: the potential to run on renewable energy; energy efficiency and potential savings, especially during periods of high gas prices; and health and safety.
