Benefits, Drawbacks, and Expert Installation with JPS Furnace & Air Conditioning

As the temperature starts to improve in Calgary, you may be thinking about upgrading your home’s cooling system. Heat pumps are becoming a very popular choice for homeowners looking to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. In fact, last year was the first time more people in the U.S. bought heat pumps for their homes than traditional fossil-fuel furnaces. Though heat pumps aren’t new, the technology has advanced significantly so we wanted to explain what a heat pump is, how it works, and whether it’s worth investing in one for your Calgary home.

What is a Heat Pump and How Does it Work?

A heat pump is an HVAC system that can both heat and cool your home. Unlike traditional furnaces or air conditioners that generate heat or cold air, a heat pump works by transferring heat from one place to another. In the winter, it extracts heat from the outdoor air and brings it inside your home. In the summer, it reverses the process and removes heat from your home, releasing it outside.

Heat pumps are more energy-efficient than traditional HVAC systems because they move heat instead of generating it. They use electricity to power the compressor and fans, but they can provide up to three times more energy than they consume. This means that you can save money on your utility bills while reducing your carbon footprint.

Are Heat Pumps Worth it in Canada?

Heat pumps are suitable for Calgary’s climate, which is characterized by cold winters and hot summers. While heat pumps are most efficient in mild temperatures, they can still provide reliable heating in temperatures as low as -15°C. In fact, because heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, they can maintain a consistent temperature in your home without needing to ramp up the heat like a gas furnace.

According to Natural Resources Canada, heat pumps can reduce your energy consumption by up to 50%, depending on your climate and heating needs. While the upfront cost of a heat pump may be higher than a traditional furnace or air conditioner, the long-term savings on your energy bills can make it a worthwhile investment.

Is a Heat Pump Better Than AC?

Heat pumps have several advantages over traditional air conditioners. While air conditioners can only cool your home, heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling. This means that you don’t need to install separate HVAC systems for each season, saving you money on installation and maintenance costs.

Additionally, heat pumps are more energy-efficient than air conditioners. While air conditioners generate cold air, heat pumps transfer heat from the indoor air to the outdoor air, which requires less energy. This makes heat pumps more environmentally friendly and can save you money on your energy bills.

How Does a Heat Pump Work in Winter?

One of the concerns homeowners in Calgary may have about heat pumps is how they perform in our colder temperatures. While heat pumps are more efficient in milder temperatures, they can still operate in freezing temperatures. In colder temperatures, heat pumps use a defrost cycle to remove any ice buildup on the outdoor unit. Some heat pumps also have supplemental heating options, such as electric resistance or gas-fired heating, to ensure that your home stays warm even in extremely cold temperatures.

The Downside to a Heat Pump

While heat pumps have many advantages, they also have some limitations. One of the biggest drawbacks is that they may not be as effective in extreme temperatures, such as during a cold snap. Additionally, heat pumps require a certain amount of space outside your home to install the outdoor unit, which may be a concern for some homeowners.

At JPS Furnace & Air Conditioning, we offer a range of services to ensure that your heat pump is functioning at its best. Our air duct cleaning services can improve your indoor air quality, while our other services, such maintenance and HVAC repair, can help you maintain your HVAC system. We also offer the JPS After Care Club, which provides regular maintenance and tune-ups for your heating and cooling systems. Our Unit Replacement Lifetime Warranty guarantees that if your heat pumps compressor needs to be replaced, we will provide a new one at no additional cost*. We also offer financing for easy monthly payments to make it easier for you to invest in a heat pump.

If you’re interested in upgrading to a heat pump or want to learn more about our services, visit our Calgary showroom or contact us to get a free quote. With 20 years of experience and award-winning service, we’re committed to providing our customers with the best HVAC solutions for their Calgary homes.

While it may have some limitations, it’s a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking to reduce their energy consumption and save money on their utility bills. If you’re considering a heat pump for your Calgary home, JPS Furnace & Air Conditioning can provide expert knowledge, installation, and repair services to ensure that your heat pump is functioning at its best.