Heat Pumps
Save energy, save money, and improve your
home comfort.
🟨 Be Kind to the Earth and Your Pocket
Embracing Cold Climate Heat Pumps: A Sustainable Choice for Home Heating and Cooling
In the global push to combat climate change, our homes play a crucial role. Choosing the right heating and cooling system can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. Cold climate heat pumps are emerging as a leading solution, offering both environmental and economic benefits.
Efficiency and Adaptability
Cold climate heat pumps are highly efficient systems designed to operate effectively even in cold temperatures. They can both heat and cool your home by transferring heat from one place to another. In heating mode, they extract heat from the outside air and transfer it inside. In cooling mode, they remove heat from inside and transfer it outside.
Reduced Emissions
One of the most compelling reasons to choose cold climate heat pumps is their lower environmental impact. By using electricity to move heat rather than burning fossil fuels, these systems produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions. This is especially significant in regions where electricity is generated from renewable sources like wind or solar power.
Energy Savings
Cold climate heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency, particularly when compared to traditional heating and cooling systems. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pumps can reduce electricity use for heating by up to 50% compared to electric resistance heating. This can lead to substantial cost savings over time, offsetting the initial investment in the system.
Contributing to Global Change
Our individual energy choices have a direct impact on the environment. By opting for cold climate heat pumps, we can reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change. This shift towards more sustainable heating and cooling solutions is crucial for the future of our planet.
Cold climate heat pumps offer a compelling alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems. It is true that heat pumps may be more expensive initially, however, their efficiency, environmental benefits, and cost savings make them a smart choice for homeowners in colder climates looking to reduce their carbon footprint. By embracing technologies like cold climate heat pumps, we can all play a part in creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.
🟨 Still Not Convinced About The Benefits Of Heat Pumps?
UPPCO and Ontonagon Village Housing Commission have partnered to deliver year round comfort and significant savings to the residents and commission. See the Ontonagon Village Housing Commission case study to learn more.
🟨 Earn Money For Your Heat Pump System
Heat pumps are an efficient way to use energy in your home. Heat pumps move heat instead of creating heat so you can heat and cool your home, heat your water, and dry your clothes using significantly less energy.
Not only can you receive a manufacturer rebate for your heat pump, you can also receive additional UPPCO Energy Efficiency incentives based on the rating of your unit. *
- $300.00 per ton with baseline SEER2 of 15 or more
- $100 bonus per ton for SEER2 greater than 21
- $100 bonus per ton for HSPF2 greater than 10
- $200 bonus per ton for inclusion on the NEEP CCASHP Product List
Not Sure Where To Start?
Connect with a team member and learn more about your options by calling (906) 449-2222.
An Energy-Efficient HVAC Alternative
On average, more than half of the energy you use goes to heating and cooling your home. That’s why it’s important to choose an HVAC system that will save energy, save money, and keep you and your family comfortable for years to come.
Cooling Season
Heating Season
Heat pump technology is a leading-edge solution for high-efficiency heating and cooling. A heat pump system can be a great alternative to a traditional furnace or other heating equipment and provides a simple way to introduce central air conditioning to your home.
How does a heat pump work?
Unlike a gas furnace or wood burning stove, heat pumps don’t create heat; instead, they move heat from one place to another. This is possible because heat energy is naturally present in the earth and air, even when it is cold outside. Essentially, a heat pump functions as an air conditioner that can also work in reverse. In the summer, the equipment moves heat from inside to outside the home; and in the winter, heat is transferred from outside to inside the home.
Advantages of a heat pump system
Efficiency. Heat pumps use considerably less energy to heat and cool your home, all year long.
Convenience. Since a heat pump system is powered by electricity, you won’t spend time filling tanks, splitting and hauling wood, or dealing with the risk of fuel shortages or seasonal price fluctuations.
Comfort. With heat pumps, you have more control of your comfort. And, thanks to modern features, you
can enjoy consistent heating and cooling with quiet equipment operation.
Health. Heat pumps have an air filter that removes harmful particles from indoor air. Many models also provide dehumidification, reducing the likelihood of mold and mildew.
Safety. Since a heat pump is not powered by natural gas or propane, you have less risk of leaks, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Cleaner environment. Electric-powered heat pumps are designed to produce zero emissions on-site and can utilize renewable energy sources like wind and solar— thereby reducing your environmental impact.
FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTION
Do I need to replace my current
heating system if I want to use a
heat pump?
No. Though high-efficiency heat pumps
are often configured to work as the
sole heating system, they can also be
used to supplement an existing system.
Energy Efficiency in Action:
Saving in a polar vortex!
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is one of the coldest and snowiest regions in the U.S. Keeping warm without breaking the bank can be a challenge. When Jennifer and her husband bought a new home, they knew the existing electric resistance baseboard heating wasn’t going to be economical.
After much research, she decided on a cold climate, ductless, air-source heat pump. Because she chose a model that works well in cold climates, even during the polar vortex in 2019 with temperatures outside of -26 degrees, Jennifer and her husband were comfortably warm, even with one of their outdoor units buried in snow. They only occasionally needed to use their wood burning stove for some backup heat. The new heat pump provides economical heating and cooling in one of the coldest and snowiest regions in the country.
Home & Heating System Information
Location: Marquette, MI
Size: 2,200 square feet
Age of Home: 41 years
Original Heating System: Electric resistance
Heat Pump: Extended capacity ductless mini-split
Backup Heating Source: Wood stove
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some heat pump systems qualify for utility incentives and others do not?
High efficiency units qualify for incentives because they use less energy, have lower operating costs, provide better cooling and dehumidification, and may provide more heat at lower temperatures. Be sure to tell your contractor how you would like to use your system to ensure that it is sized properly. Verify with your electric utility what efficiency levels are needed and if an incentive or electric rate discount is available prior to installation.
How should I set my thermostat for my boiler or secondary heating system?
Yes. A customer was asked if he was happy with the performance of his HPWH. His response was, “Very, the electric bill is way down.”
Standard electric water heaters at 50 gallons use approximately 3,531 kWh per year while a hybrid uses 950 kWh per year. At $0.21 per kWh a 50 gallon heat pump water heater will save $542.01 in the first year. Current examples of savings exists on water heater savings cards for the top three manufacturers based on $0.12.
What size heat pump do I need?
Heat pumps will typically be sized larger than standard air conditioners for homes that have more heating needs than cooling needs. Heat pump sizing varies by home based on square footage of the home, floorplan, insulation levels, air-tightness, etc. Talk to your contractor to make sure your heat pump is sized according to your heating and cooling needs. If you want to meet both heating and cooling needs look for a variable speed system.
Do heat pumps work in cold weather?
Yes. Many cold climate ductless systems are designed to work down to -15°F. Some ducted systems can work down to as low as 5°F. For a cold climate product list visit ASHP.NEEP.org. Discuss options for models specifically designed to perform in low temperatures with your contractor. For optimal winter performance, units may need additional stands and covers to work in conditions with large snowfall.
Do all heat pumps bring in fresh air?
No. Heat pumps move heat only, not air. If a fresh air intake is something you are interested in, discuss options with your contractor.
Do heat pumps produce enough heat for an entire home or business?
Yes. All homes and businesses are capable of being heated and cooled entirely with some form of heat pumps. There are several variables your local contractor will take into consideration to recommend the best heat pump option for your home or business. If you’re looking for a whole-home or whole-business heating solution, be sure to let your installer know. Large homes and buildings may be a better fit for a ground source heat pump.
What about a Wi-Fi thermostat?
Similar to a programmable thermostat, a Wi-Fi thermostat can be used with heat pumps. They can also be better option especially for seasonal cabins
with an internet connection or where you want easy access to the thermostat without going to another part of the house. When using a Wi-Fi thermostat with a heat pump, check to verify that it is not automatically using a preprogrammed setback or auto away mode.
When leaving for extended periods of time, such as for the winter, be sure the heating setting is reduced as much as possible but never below 55°F in the heating season. When getting ready to return just open the Wi-Fi thermostat app and turn the heat up to your preferred temperature. By the time you arrive your home should
be nice and comfortable.
Only set your thermostat back 3 or 4 degrees at night or when leaving the house for work. Since a heat pump’s output capacity is lower than a traditional furnace, it will run longer than your furnace does. This helps keep temperatures in your home more comfortable.
Is there a temperature below which a conventional heating system is cheaper to run than a heat pump?
As outdoor temperatures get colder and colder, it gets increasingly difficult for a heat pump to absorb heat from the air, and the efficiency of the system goes down. On the coldest of days, it will typically be cheaper to run a conventional heating system. The exact transition temperature will depend on the heat pump model, electricity, and backup fuel prices, and whether the heat pump is sized for heating.
Should I use a programmable thermostat?
A programmable thermostat can be used with a heat pump. However, large setbacks like the ones preprogrammed are not suggested. It’s best to create a custom schedule based on when you wake up, go to work, and go to bed. Only decrease the indoor temperature by 3 to 4 degrees during these events in the winter and increase in the summer.
This is most important for homes that use all electric heat pumps to minimize the use of expensive electric heat which helps our home get back to temperature quickly after a setback. Homes with propane and oil can also see significant savings by using the method above.
How will a heat pump affect my annual heating costs?
This will be different for every home. A home’s savings will depend on the current source of heating fuel. If you
heat with electric resistance, you can see savings as high as 60%. If you don’t heat with electric resistance, your electric bill will go up, but other heating fuel costs will go down. Overall, oil or propane users can see up to 50% net savings on their average yearly heating costs.
What do HSPF, SEER, and COP mean?
HSPF = Heating Season Performance Factor. This is a measure of a heat pump’s efficiency over an average heating season, using heating output in BTUs compared to electricity consumed in watt-hours.
SEER = Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is a measure of a heat pump’s efficiency over an average cooling season, using cooling output in BTUs compared to electricity consumed in watt-hours.
COP = Coefficient of Performance. This is the ratio of cooling or heating output to energy consumed at a specific temperature. This ratio converts both output and consumption to a common unit, making this different than HSPF or SEER which use a ratio of BTUs to watthours. The higher the COP, the better. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit.
What is the average life-span of a heat pump?
It can vary, depending on how much the system is used and how regularly it is checked or serviced. Generally, the average life-span is 15-20 years, but individual units may vary and last longer depending on the use and how well they are maintained.
🟨 Save on home water heating
Second only to space heating and cooling, water heating is the next largest source of energy consumption in U.S. homes.
We use hot water every day for showering, doing dishes, washing clothes, and a multitude of other tasks—and the cost to heat that water adds up, especially if you have a standard electric or propane water heater.
While standard electric resistance water heaters are relatively inexpensive to purchase, they are costly to operate. On the other hand, heat pump water heaters cost more upfront, but provide significant savings over time. Advanced heat pump technology can slash electricity consumption by up to 70 percent.
What is a heat pump water heater?
Heat pumps are highly efficient because they operate by moving heat instead of creating heat—basically working like a refrigerator in reverse.
Heat pump water heaters function essentially the same as a home air source heat pump system. A fan in the top section of the water heater draws surrounding ambient air into the heat pump. Heat energy is extracted from the air, which is transferred to a fluid called refrigerant. The refrigerant is compressed, becomes hot, and passes through the condenser coils—heating the water in the tank. Cooled, dehumidified air exits the heat pump, and a very small amount of distilled water leaves the unit through a condensate drain.
Water Heater
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a heat pump water heater larger than a traditional water heater? Will it fit in my home?
There are many sizes of water heaters. Heat Pump water heaters are considered a tall model. Small 15-30 gallon water heaters located under a counter, if replaced with a HPWH, would need to be relocated. A typical 50 gallon HPWH could be 60-65” tall and 22-27” in diameter.
Heat pump water heaters are more expensive than electric resistance water heaters – is it really worth it?
Yes. A customer was asked if he was happy with the performance of his HPWH. His response was, “Very, the electric bill is way down.”
Standard electric water heaters at 50 gallons use approximately 3,531 kWh per year while a hybrid uses 950 kWh per year. At $0.21 per kWh a 50 gallon heat pump water heater will save $542.01 in the first year. Current examples of savings exists on water heater savings cards for the top three manufacturers based on $0.12.
How much space do I need to install a heat pump water heater?
Because heat pump water heaters draw in heat from ambient air, they need to be located in a minimally warm area with enough open space for air to circulate. Generally a basement that stays 50F and an open space of 700 cubic feet will meet the needs for a heat pump water heater to be able to absorb heat effectively.
What is the average life-span of a heat pump water heater? Does the unit need annual maintenance?
Heat pump water heaters have a six or ten year warranty. With proper maintenance they may last much longer. Annual maintenance includes draining the tank to flush mineral deposits from the base of the tank once or twice a year depending on the water quantity. The heat pump air filter should be checked and cleaned when the alarm or indicator light is active. Filter cleaning should happen every six months to a year depending on surrounding conditions, and heat pump water heaters located in dusty areas may require monthly cleaning. HPWH filters can typically be vacuumed or rinsed in the sink.
Will I be able to change the temperature on a heat pump water heater?
Yes heat pump water heaters have a digital control panel which allows you set the temperature you would like. New units even indicate if water temperature set point may cause a scald risk.
Can I install a heat pump water heater myself?
Yes, if you are comfortable making both plumbing and electrical connections. Please note heat pump water heaters are quite large and heavy. Moving and positioning the unit may take two people. Please consult local building permit authority to ensure installation in accordance with the current code.
How do I operate a heat pump water heater?
While the default setting is typically hybrid/auto mode, to maximize efficiency and your energy savings, you can choose to operate the water heater in “heat pump only/efficiency” mode. To see and learn about all of your heat pump water heater mode options, you can use the digital control panel on the water heater.
Why do some water heaters qualify for incentives and others do not?
Most minimum efficiency or entry level water heaters do not qualify for rebates as they are expensive to operate over the course of their lifetime and use more energy than the unit is eligible for rebate. Heat pump water heaters replacing propane or natural gas may not qualify for a rebate.
WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP DRYER?
LEARN MORE
Contact UPPCO Energy Efficiency to learn more about available rebates and eligibility requirements.
(906) 449-2222 | ee.uppco.com
