How a Heat Pump Works and Why It’s a Smart Choice for Oregon Winters and Summers

Struggling to deal with high energy bills? In the United States, around 43% of a home’s energy bill is devoted to home heating and cooling. By switching to a heat pump, you can get an all-in-one solution that reduces your energy expenses each month.

In Oregon’s mild climate, a heat pump’s heating and cooling are especially effective. To see if you’re ready to make the switch, learn more about how a heat pump works, the benefits, and installation requirements.

How a Heat Pump Works

Unlike a furnace, a heat pump doesn’t create heat. How a heat pump works is by moving heat from one area to another. It relies on refrigerant lines, like an air conditioner, to absorb and transfer heat. In essence, it’s like a two-way air conditioner. Heat pumps can transfer heat indoors in the winter and outdoors during the summer, ensuring a high level of year-round performance and comfort.

Why Heat Pumps Are Perfect for Oregon

Oregon is known for having a fairly moderate climate. This makes it ideal for heat pumps. While modern, cold-rated heat pumps can operate in extremely frigid temperatures, they are more energy efficient in moderate climates. During Oregon’s cold winters and mild summers, your heat pump can help you stay comfortable.

When you get a heat pump service in Bend, you can choose to have zoned or ductless heat pumps. This type of heat pump technology, known as a ductless mini-split, is ideal for homes without existing ductwork. For maximum savings, you can also pair heat pumps and ductless mini-splits with solar power.

Key Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump

As a homeowner, there are a few heat pump benefits you can take advantage of. From energy-efficient home heating to quiet operation, the following are some of the most popular advantages of getting a heat pump installed.

• Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are incredibly energy efficient, so you can reduce the amount you spend on your energy bills throughout the year.
• Eco-Friendly: Because they use less energy, heat pumps are also known for being incredibly environmentally friendly. 
• Dual Functionality: With a heat pump, you only need to have one heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit installed in your home.
• Quiet Operation and Comfort Control: For quiet comfort, heat pumps are one of the best HVAC options available.
• Rebates and Incentives: Investing in a heat pump can also help you save money. Oregon offers incentives for energy-efficient heat pumps. There is also a federal tax credit available as well.

Common Heat Pump Misconceptions 

When it comes to heat pump efficiency, installation, and benefits, there are a few common misconceptions that we often hear. We’ll address some of the most common ones below.

Myth: “They don’t work in cold weather.” 

Thirty years ago, heat pumps may have struggled in extremely cold temperatures. Today, that’s simply no longer the case. Modern heat pumps are designed to work in extremely cold conditions, so they easily match the performance needs of Oregon homeowners.

Myth: “They’re expensive to install.” 

While a heat pump installation in Oregon may cost a little more upfront, you can quickly recuperate those costs. The federal government, Oregon, municipalities, and utility providers often provide rebates for installing heat pumps. Additionally, these units save you a significant amount of money on energy costs over the long run.

Myth: “They’re only for mild climates.”

Thanks to modern advances in technology, heat pumps are effective in cold climates as well. Many heat pumps work just as well at 5°F as they do at 47°F.

While it seems counterintuitive, there is actually a lot of heat in the air at low temperatures. Any time the temperature is above absolute zero (-459.67 °F), it is because there is some amount of heat present. While the temperature at 5°F may feel cold to your skin, there is still heat present. Because of this, a heat pump’s heating and cooling systems can still work effectively at a broad range of temperatures.

When To Consider a Heat Pump Upgrade 

Are you considering a heat pump service in Redmond or Bend? When it comes to an HVAC upgrade in Oregon, a heat pump is an excellent option in the following situations.

• Your existing HVAC system is already 10 years old or older.
• You want to switch from electric or propane heat to something else.
• You want better energy efficiency and lower energy costs.

With heat pump heating and cooling, you can enjoy a long-lasting HVAC unit and a better level of energy efficiency. Whether you’re considering electric heat vs. a heat pump or just need an upgrade, our team of experienced HVAC technicians can help you determine the best option for your family’s needs.

Why Choose Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

At Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we have worked in the local region since 1993. Thanks to our extensive experience, we understand the type of heat pump service Bend and Redmond residents need. Local residents turn to us for a few important reasons.

• Certified Technicians: It has taken 30 years to build our reputation in the industry. Because of this, we don’t just hire anyone. We carefully vet each of our certified heat pump installers and repair technicians, so you can be confident about the quality of our services.
• Local Expertise: We are a local company, so we understand Oregon’s unique climate. As a result, we can deliver exceptional results with every repair and installation project.
• 24/7 Services: At Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we understand that HVAC equipment doesn’t break down on a convenient 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we offer 24/7 emergency services. When a heating system breaks down at midnight, we’re here to help.
• Convenient Financing: Most people don’t have a line item in their budget for unexpected HVAC repairs and installations. To make budgeting for a new heat pump as easy as possible, we offer multiple financing options.
• Free Estimates: Our goal is to make sure homeowners understand each part of the installation process. As a part of that mission, we provide a free estimate that covers all of the services that will be performed. 

Schedule Your Heat Pump Installation in Oregon

Once you know how a heat pump works and the many heat pump benefits, the next step is deciding if this HVAC unit is right for your home. Our technicians can evaluate your existing setup to determine the best system for your needs. We can walk you through the installation process, discuss a heat pump’s efficiency benefits, and review available rebates. 

Schedule your heat pump consultation by giving us a call today!