Heat pumps are slowly beginning to replace furnaces and boilers in homes across Canada, especially in warmer climates like the Lower Mainland. But what about their functionality in Alberta? You may wonder: “How practical can a heat pump really be in Edmonton’s colder climate? Are there even heat pump installers near me?”
You can get expert heat pump installation from our team at Weiss-Johnson! Below, we’ll discuss how heat pumps work, their benefits, and why you can trust our team to install one in your home. Keep reading to learn more!
How Heat Pumps Work
Heat pumps are dual-fuel systems that can provide both heat and cooling to your home. During the winter, they pull heat from the cold outdoor air to transfer indoors, while they pull heat from inside to outdoors during the warmer months.
Many people are switching to heat pumps due to their versatility—they get a heating and cooling system in one small unit! Unlike your standard gas furnace, heat pumps are powered by electricity and don’t burn fossil fuels, making them an attractive choice for homeowners trying to live more eco-friendly. These units are also installed outside, so there’s no need to make room for one indoors!
The Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump in Edmonton
Heat pumps can be a great alternative to a traditional furnace, even in colder regions like Alberta. Here are just a few benefits you can get when installing one of these units:
Dual Use Design: While the name might suggest otherwise, heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling. Rather than installing a furnace and an air conditioner, you can get the best of both worlds with one unit and one installation.
Pairing the right furnace with the right AC can be difficult, particularly for older homes. Opting for a heat pump can help simplify your HVAC.
Advancements for Cold Climates: When heat pumps first came onto the scene, they were most effective in warmer climates where winters don’t get too chilly. In recent years, advancements have been made in heat pump designs to better accommodate colder regions, ensuring the unit is still effective during peak temperatures.
Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are very wallet-friendly units! Unlike heat-generating furnaces, heat pumps transfer heat indoors and out, which requires less energy and can lower your utility bill significantly.
Environmentally-Friendly: The low energy usage of heat pumps grants them an eco-friendly stamp! In addition to low energy consumption, they also emit fewer to zero carbon emissions, making them a safer alternative for the local environment.
Does a Heat Pump Work For Your Home?
Heat pumps can be a great solution to your heating and cooling needs, but is it the right fit for your home and lifestyle? Here are a few things to consider:
Electricity vs Gas Costs: In Alberta, electricity rates are more expensive compared to provinces like BC and Ontario. We have a plentiful supply of natural gas in our province, which is why many homeowners prefer gas furnaces to electrical units.
While heat pumps generally use less energy than a furnace, consider how your fuel costs compare to your usage rate to determine whether electricity or gas works best for your HVAC budget.
Peak Cold Spikes: While heat pumps operate effectively in colder climates, let’s face it— Edmonton can get pretty cold. If you’re concerned about how well your heat pump will perform in -35° temperatures, our team at Weiss-Johnson recommends installing a dual system that combines a heat pump and furnace. During peak cold temperatures, you can switch off your heat pump and transition to your furnace without missing a beat!
Outdoor Space: Heat pumps are installed outside, so make sure you actually have a dedicated space for your unit! It should be installed in a well-ventilated area free from obstructions.
Maintenance: Your heat pump must be kept clean at all times to ensure proper airflow. Once temperatures begin to drop, frost buildup can prevent your heat pump from properly circulating. Make sure to do regular visual checks and remove any snow, ice, or frost. You can also invest in a durable heat pump cover if you’re away from home during extended periods.
Get Expert Heat Pump Installation from Weiss-Johnson
Are you considering a heat pump for your Edmonton home? Contact our team at Weiss-Johnson for expert heat pump installation and maintenance. For nearly 50 years, we’ve helped over 100,000 customers with their heating and cooling systems.
1 in 6 Edmonton homeowners rely on a Weiss-Johnson HVAC system to provide optimal temperature control and air quality. You can trust our team to provide expert heat pump installation and maintenance services for your home.
Contact us today to learn more about our services.
