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A heat pump system can deliver value to your home if the model used matches your region and if it’s installed properly. Air-source heat pumps work well in the South, where temperatures rarely drop below freezing. 1023600302 In more northerly climates geothermal heat pumps shine because their heat source remains shielded—the top 10 feet of earth consistently measures between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.


Going ‘Geo’


Outside temperatures may vary, but the earth’s temperature remains steady year-round and can be harnessed to make homes comfortable. According to DOE, geothermal heat pumps offer energy savings between 30 percent and 60 percent annually when compared to conventional baseboard or radiant heating systems, and are typically the most efficient heat pump option.


Geothermal heat pumps move a liquid or water through pipes buried in the ground, then into a home. Also called ground-source heat pumps, there are two types of units: a groundwater (open- loop) system uses well or pond water, while an earth-coupled (closed-loop) model uses a water and antifreeze solution. Systems can be installed horizontally or vertically, depending on available space.


Geothermal efficiency depends on climate, soil and water conditions, and landscaping. For example, soil that transfers heat easily requires less piping. Rocky terrain may require a vertical loop system instead of a more economical horizontal loop system.


Air-Source


Air-source heat pumps use a system of coils to evaporate a refrigerant and, with it, draw heat away from a home, cooling the air. In winter the magic reverses with the flip of a valve, and your home heats. 0082700700


When shopping for an air-source heat pump, compare the seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER) for cooling prowess, and heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) for compressor and heating element strength. For warmer climates, SEER is more important than HSPF; in colder climates find a system with a high HSPF.


Ductless/Mini- Split


In a twist of a classic magic trick, ductwork funneling conditioned air to different rooms can cause some air to “disappear”—





Ductless or “mini-split” heat pumps are ideal for room additions where adding duct work may not be possible. Source: GE


Saving on Systems


Although the purchase price of heat pumps may be more expensive than traditional air conditioning, rebates, tax credits and long-term savings help cut the cost. A federal tax credit equal to 30 percent of the cost for materials and installation, with no limit on total project expenses, applies to geothermal heat pumps through Dec. 31, 2016. A list of requirements can be found at www.energystar.gov/taxcredits. To find incentives in your state, check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency at www.dsireusa.org


Megan McKoy-Noe writes on energy effi ciency issues for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Va.-based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-for-profi t electric cooperatives. Magen Howard and Brian Sloboda contributed to this article.


People’s Powerline


Although the purchase price of heat pumps may be more expensive than traditional air conditioning, rebates, tax credits and long- term savings help cut the cost.”


wasting from 15 percent to 20 percent of the energy used to heat or cool the air. While sealing air ducts and proper insulation helps, another option is to bypass ducts with a ductless version of an air-source heat pump (DHP), also called a “mini-split” heat pump.


Small and versatile, ductless heat pumps have two main parts: an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air-handling units. These components are linked by a cable (refrigerant line). Many systems offer up to four indoor units to condition different rooms, and some systems come with wireless remotes or wall-mounted control units. 1030500200


According to CRN, these devices use an estimated 50 percent to 60 percent less energy than traditional forms of heating. DHPs are ideal for room additions where duct work may not be possible, or for homes with “non-ducted” air conditioning (i.e. window units). Indoor models can be mounted in the ceiling, hung on the wall, or placed on the floor.


DHPs are costly—30 percent more expensive than traditional central air systems (not including ductwork). Installation can also be tricky—if a system is too big for the space, energy will be wasted and the correct temperature may not be reached.


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