Heat pumps offer an efficient and cost-effective way of both heating and cooling the home but, unfortunately, they’re all too often overlooked and under-appreciated due to a few prevailing myths. Here we dispel some of them so you can properly consider the benefits they offer and whether one may be right for you.
Myth 1: Heat Pumps are Noisy
This may have been true with older heat pumps, but improvements in design and manufacturing over the years mean that modern heat pumps run much more quietly. Of course, all heating solutions make some noise, but the level generated by heat pumps is no worse than other heating options.
The outdoor component of a heat pump will typically run at around 40 dB, comparable to the background noise you would find in a quiet library. Even when running flat out, they will typically only hit around 60 dB, which is the volume you’d expect from a casual conversation or a typical air conditioning unit. Either way, there’s a good chance that your heat pump will still be quieter than the traffic going by. The indoor component is much quieter, comparable in volume to a whispered conversation.
Myth 2: Heat Pumps Only Work Well at Certain Temperatures
It’s understandable that some people think this, given how heat pumps work, but it simply isn’t the case. Modern heat pumps can operate well at a wide range of temperatures, with tests showing that they could effectively heat a home at temperatures as low as around 5°F.
Heat pumps can also provide effective cooling across a very wide temperature range, offering effective cooling at any temperature between 15°F and 115°F. This means that they can be effective as both a heating and cooling solution anywhere in the States.
Myth 3: Heat Pumps are Expensive
As with most myths, there is a grain of truth in this one. Installing a heat pump does often come with significant upfront costs, however, they can offer significant savings over alternative heating and cooling options year after year.
The exact amount you save will vary based on a number of factors including the size of your home and your current heating solution, but it can be substantial. Many report a reduction of around 20 to 40% on their annual heating and cooling costs, and those replacing propane, electric, or oil-based systems are expected to save somewhere between $800 and $1,300 on heating alone.
Heat pumps generally require less maintenance than other heating systems, meaning that you’ll be enjoying savings on maintenance costs over the years too. When you consider all of these ongoing savings, the upfront cost of having a heat pump installed doesn’t seem so bad.
Myth 4: Any Heat Pump Will Do
Although it may be easier to think that all heat pumps are more or less the same, it’s definitely not true. Whilst many can serve to heat or cool your home, different models vary in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, noise, and reliability. Modern heat pumps have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years, so you definitely want to make sure you go with one of the better options.
This may make switching to or replacing your heat pump feel overwhelming, but as long as you go with a professional firm such as Hoot Heating & Air you can’t go wrong. We will discuss your individual needs with you and assess your property to make sure you’re getting the heat pump that is right for you.
If you’re ready to disregard the myths surrounding heat pumps and learn more about how one could benefit you, including getting a free estimate, contact Hoot today.
