If you’re getting ready to replace your central air conditioner, it’s worth considering a heat pump instead.
Heat pumps don’t just cool, they can also heat. That means you’re getting a new cooling system and a new heating system for the same cost as air conditioner replacement.
Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of replacing your AC with a heat pump, how they compare in terms of comfort and efficiency, and what kind of savings and incentives may be available.
Types of Heat Pumps
Central Heat Pumps
Central heat pumps use air ducts to carry cool (or warm) air throughout your home. They’re a great choice if you already have ducts and want a whole-home heating and cooling system that doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.
Ductless Mini Split Heat Pumps
Mini splits are heat pumps that don’t require ductwork. Instead, they use wall- or ceiling-mounted indoor units connected to an outdoor compressor. They can work well in any house and are a great option for houses without air ducts, additions, and rooms that never stay comfortable enough.
Heat Pumps vs Central Air Conditioning
All types of cooling systems have their pros and cons. But heat pumps (both ducted and ductless) can do more for your home than a central AC system can.
Here’s how heat pumps and central ACs compare.
Performance
Heat pumps can heat and cool, while central ACs can only cool. When you install a heat pump, you’re getting two HVAC system upgrades for the price of one.
Energy Efficiency
Heat pumps are the most energy-efficient HVAC systems available. Instead of generating heat by burning fuel, they move heat using electricity, which uses less energy. It's better for the environment and could save you money on your energy bills.
Installation Costs & Incentives
Heat pump installation costs and central AC replacement costs are typically about the same. But you get more from a heat pump than you do from an AC, making it a more cost-effective investment.
Plus, heat pumps can qualify for incentives that reduce your installation costs.
The federal heat pump tax credit will save you $2,000 when you install a qualifying system before the end of this year.
You may also be eligible for Clean Heat Rhode Island heat pump rebates and Rhode Island Energy heat pump rebates.
We can help you take advantage of special financing options for Mitsubishi Electric Heat Pumps.
Reach out to CARJON to learn more about incentives and rebates for heat pump installation. We will help you take full advantage!
Flexibility with Ductless Options
Ductless mini split heat pumps give you unmatched flexibility. Since they don’t need ductwork, you can install a mini split almost anywhere in your house.
Mini splits make it easy to add heat/AC to:
Rooms that are hard to keep comfortable, like a sunroom, upstairs bedrooms, or a finished basement
Older houses that don’t have ductwork
New home additions
Is a Heat Pump Right for Your Home?
When it’s time to replace your central air conditioning system, a heat pump might be the best option.
Heat pumps can cool and dehumidify better than many central air conditioning systems, and they provide heating, too. It’s a more robust solution that costs the same as a central AC.
But every home is different. At CARJON, we install high-efficiency air conditioning and heat pump systems, including Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps, and we’ll help you find the right fit for your home.
Since 1989, we’ve helped thousands of Rhode Island homeowners stay comfortable with our HVAC services, and we’re ready to help you too.
