Angie's List: Is a heat pump the right option for your home?

Homeowners today have a wide variety of options for heating and cooling. If you’re looking to save money, a heat pump may be a good option for your home, according to consumer review group, Angie's List.

A heat pump uses electricity to move heat rather than generate heat. Because of this, they can provide up to four times the amount of energy they consume. It cools by drawing heat out of a home and warms by condensing and pumping heat from the air into a home.

There are two types of heat pumps: Air source heat pumps and Geothermal heat pumps. Air source heat pumps are the most common. They draw heat from the outside air. Industry experts say you can reduce the amount of electricity you use for heating by as much as 30 percent if you heat with electricity.

Geothermal heat pumps use the ground instead of the air to provide heating and cooling. Both units typically feature a backup heater or furnace to help if temperatures swing too dramatically. Both deliver better efficiency that conventional HVAC systems, but geothermal is more efficient than an air source heat pump. However, geothermal is more expensive to install due to significant excavation required.

Angie’s List, the nation’s premier provider of consumer reviews, asked highly rated Heating and cooling contractors about heat pumps.

• Heat pump costs: Cost is determined by installation and options. An average air source heat pump costs between $5,000 and $10,000. A geothermal system can cost as much as $20,000 to $30,000 or more, but if you stay in your home for a long time you can expect to see a significant return in lower operating costs.
• Tax credits available: Homeowners who add a qualifying air source heat pump or a geothermal heat pump can receive a tax credit through the government’s Energy Star program.
• Hire a contractor with experience: Talk to a reputable HVAC contractor about whether a heat pump is right for your home. Not all HVAC companies offer heat pumps, so be sure you are working with someone who has experience in the various types and installation.
• Location, location, location: Before you install your air source heat pump, pick a location that will shield the unit from high winds, which can cause defrosting issues.
• Maintenance required: Like any other heating and cooling system, heat pumps require regular maintenance to run efficiently. Check filters once a month and clean or change as needed. Schedule a professional service check as recommended by the manufacturer.