Which Heat Pump Should I Buy?

So you’ve decided to buy a heat pump for your home. It’s no wonder why: A heat pump is an all-in-one temperature control system that can save you a tremendous amount on energy. In the relatively mild Pacific Northwest climate, these temperature control systems can efficiently heat and cool your home while having a lower impact on the environment. But which heat pump should you install?

Here’s our guide to buying a heat pump in the moderate climate of the Snohomish and East King County areas. First, let’s break down the differences between air-source and split-ductless heat pumps, as well as how these heat pumps work.

What is an Air-Source Heat Pump?

Air-source heat pumps are the most common type of pump system throughout the U.S. A new air-source heat pump can reduce your energy usage for heating by as much as 50%, creating a huge impact on your energy bills.

These heat pumps have two parts: An indoor unit, referred to as the air handler, working together with the outdoor heat pump to move heat between the inside and outside of your home. A refrigerant circulates between the air handler and heat pump to absorb and release heat as needed.

In previous decades, air-source heat pumps were not viable in truly cold temperatures. Luckily, modern technology has improved so that you can use a new heat pump below freezing. However, you may still want to supplement with a furnace or other heating system if you are concerned about temperatures below 20 degrees F. In Western Washington, this usually isn’t a problem. 

If you are looking for a sturdy, basic heat pump that can work well with other heating or cooling systems, consider an air-source heat pump.

What is a Split-Ductless Heat Pump?

Split-ductless heat pumps, also known as mini splits, are quiet heating systems that require minimal construction. Since you don’t need ductwork to use the system, split-ductless heat pumps are often installed in additions.

Like air-source heat pumps, split-ductless heat pumps have at least two units. There is typically an outdoor compressor/condenser that works together with at least one indoor air handler. Refrigerant circulates through the tubing that connects the air handlers and outdoor unit. The indoor units are typically installed on the ceiling or high on a wall, and they may come with a remote control.

Split-ductless heat pumps with multiple indoor units often cost more than other systems. However, federal rebates and other incentives can help you make up the cost.

If you are looking for an especially quiet heating system or want to avoid the energy losses associated with duct work, a split-ductless heat pump may be right for you.

Air-Source Heat Pump Installation from Paragon

Echelon Series Split System Heat Pumps

Echelon Series heat pumps are ENERGY STAR® qualified, meaning they offer higher efficiency than standard models. These heat pumps and are known as the most reliable among Coleman HVAC products.

LX Series Split System Heat Pumps

LX Series heat pumps reduce your utility bills and perform reliably across all seasons. Some models are ENERGY STAR certified.

Heat Pump Installation in the Puget Sound Region

We at Paragon are proud of our tradition of excellence providing homeowners in the Snohomish and East King County areas with HVAC services. Our HVAC technicians are certified, trained, and highly experienced.