Have you been thinking about switching to a super efficient heat pump? Great idea! Heat pumps are 2-3 times more efficient than gas, oil or electric resistance heating, and they provide year-round comfort with summertime cooling. Here are our tips for a successful transition:
Don’t wait until your gas furnace dies. Start the switch before your current heating system goes kaput. In an emergency, you’re more likely to replace like for like.
Get three estimates from reputable companies who are experienced with heat pumps. While the technology is well established, not all contractors understand all the technical nuances, the full suite of incentives, or know which systems are efficient enough to qualify for federal tax credits. Check out our contractor list here. It doesn’t cost anything to get quotes!
Check your electrical panel. Ask your contractor or an electrician if your electrical system will require any updates, like a panel upgrade or a new circuit.
Ducted or ductless? This will depend on your home, but if you have existing duct work in good condition and prefer better air filtration, ducted may be a good fit. If you don’t have existing ducting, and energy efficiency and cost effectiveness are your top priorities, ductless might be right for you. Ductless systems can provide supplementary heating/cooling in particular rooms not served well by a central system.
Make sure you’re buying a heat pump that’s the right size for your home. Get a home energy audit to get the full picture of your home’s energy use, and make sure your contractor does a Manual J Calculation to properly size your system. In our local climate, it’s a good idea to consider a cold climate heat pump that will keep your home toasty warm even on the chilliest of days.
Make recommended weatherization upgrades, like air sealing and insulation. A right-sized heat pump combined with envelope upgrades can help make your home as comfortable and energy efficient as possible.
Take advantage of the incentives on offer. Currently the IRA offers a 30% tax credit for heat pumps, up to $2,000, up to $1,200 for weatherization, and tax credits for panel upgrades and pre-wiring. Try out Rewiring America’s incentive calculator
Are you a renter? You’re still in luck!
“Micro” heat pumps, aka portable or room heat pumps, plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and provide efficient heating and cooling for a large room or a small studio. They heat twice as efficiently and produce 3 times the heat as an electric space heater. They cost between $500-700. Find out more about room heat pumps here. And if you income-qualify, you may be able to get a free portable heat pump through the Cooling Portland program.