If you’re in the market for a good air conditioner and you’re considering a heat pump, but the investment seems a little too large, you should know that heat pumps are an increasingly popular solution because they can provide both cooling in the summer and heating in the winter, and by following a few key principles, you won’t regret your purchase.
a. Ensure good insulation of the house
Although we rely on the heating and/or air conditioning system to obtain the desired temperature, both in summer and winter, it is also true that the quality of our home’s insulation can largely influence the degree of comfort we can obtain and maintain inside our homes. Therefore, before installing a heat pump, you should check the insulation of all essential parts (roof, walls, floors and windows) and, if necessary, intervene to improve these elements where needed. This will also help you avoid mould and save on energy bills.
b. Choosing the right equipment for your home
Depending on the size of your home and your particular heating or cooling needs, you should choose a heat pump of the appropriate size and power, otherwise the energy performance will not be optimal. In addition, some heat pumps are certainly more efficient than others, especially those that are Energy Star certified (NEEP). The warranty offered for each of these heat pumps is another very important aspect to consider.
c. Ensure that the temperature is set to the right level
Because heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, they can operate year-round. Ideally, you should set the thermostat to a temperature that is optimal for you, and that does not vary too much with outdoor conditions. This way, the unit will self-regulate to ensure year-round thermal comfort, and your energy consumption will also be more predictable.
d. Setting the exhaust air speed (for wall mounted heat pumps only)
Using the remote control, you can select a higher air exhaust speed, which allows you to reach the preset temperature faster. However, the more you use this function, the higher the energy consumption. That’s why it’s best to set up the device properly and choose the various functions according to your specific needs.
e. Good maintenance of your heat pump
Like all equipment, your heat pump should be checked at least once a year. The best solution is to contact the contractor who installed it. A technician will inspect the heat pump components and, if necessary, clean, repair or replace damaged parts.
If you would like to learn more about how heat pumps work, or need personalized advice on choosing the right unit for your home, don’t hesitate to contact us!