Heat Pumps
Why Choose a Heat Pump Over Traditional HVAC Systems?
A heat pump is a heating and cooling system that works by transferring heat between the inside and outside of a building. Compared to traditional air conditioning and furnace systems, heat pumps have several benefits:
Cost Savings: Because heat pumps are more energy-efficient, they can help reduce your energy bills, especially in colder climates like Ontario where electric resistance heating is commonly used. In addition, heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, which can eliminate the need for a separate air conditioning system, leading to cost savings.
Versatility: Heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, even in very cold climates, which makes them a versatile option for homes and businesses in Ontario. They can also be used in conjunction with other heating and cooling systems, such as a furnace or air conditioner, to provide additional heating and cooling capacity.
Durability: Heat pumps typically last longer than traditional HVAC systems, as they have fewer mechanical components that can break down over time.
Improved Comfort: Heat pumps provide more consistent and even heating and cooling compared to traditional systems, as they distribute heat more evenly throughout a space. They also offer greater control over temperature and humidity levels, leading to increased comfort.
Environmentally Friendly: Heat pumps use electricity to move heat, which means they don't burn fossil fuels or release carbon dioxide into the environment. This makes them a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional HVAC systems.
Heat Pumps in 2023
2023 is the year that we begin in earnest the biggest transition in residential heating since the introduction of neighbourhood natural gas distribution, and the term “Heat Pump” becomes common for homeowners around Toronto looking for ways to reduce the use of fossil fuels.
Government rebates that commenced on Jan 1, 2023 now allow up to $6500 for qualifying systems. While there are some all-electric heat pumps for homes that have lower heat requirements, the majority of systems that are both available and practical will be Gas / Electric Hybrid systems. Think of the heat pump as a first stage of heat before the gas equipment kicks in.
Central air-to-air heat pump “Hybrid” units replace outdoor central air conditioners and act as a first stage of heat with a gas furnace in forced-air homes. Ductless air-to-air heat pumps can run alongside your existing furnace or boiler. These types of Hybrid solutions will be the transition systems that take us through to the all-electric / (maybe hydrogen) future. There are also electric heat pump water heaters that can qualify for up to a further $1300 rebate.
A note for homes with boiler systems: while there are some air-to-water heat pumps in the market there are almost none available yet that will replace the capacity of a typically sized natural gas boiler. In some small homes we have already installed all-electric boilers, however, for the majority of us it is best to utilize ductless heat pumps to run alongside your existing natural gas boiler system and wait for your options to increase over time.
A note for homes with attic air conditioning systems: you must not replace your outdoor condensing unit with a heat pump unless your attic is a “conditioned” space (meaning it is heated and insulated), or you will run into major condensation issues in your attic. Remember, there are people out there who will tell you can attach a heat pump to any existing system. Just because this is technically correct does not make it a good idea.
The other major factor in all of this is the amount of electrical power you currently have coming into your home. If you only have a 100 amp service and a full panel, it’s unlikely that you will have enough capacity for heat pump heating systems, water heaters, and the not so distant future where the majority of new vehicles are electric. For some larger homes 200 amp service may not be enough, so it’s good to get out in front of these issues. Electrical service upgrades to your home from the time of a deposit and signed contract take a minimum of 2-3 weeks to get scheduled with Toronto Hydro, and, in the peak of the summer, this period could be even longer.
Efficient Heat Pump Service, Repairs & Installations
You might have heard that air-source heat pumps struggle in extreme temperatures. That’s no longer the case. Technological advancements have led to a wide range of models capable of keeping your home warm even on the coldest winter days in greater Toronto and the surrounding area.
Trust in our team for your heat pump services!
Rather than partner with a single brand of heat pump, Belyea Bros. Heating, Cooling & Electrical chooses from the best the industry has to offer to perfectly meet your exact needs and expectations.
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