We’ve been on the fence about getting a heat pump for the last couple years, but after some research we realized it’s actually a no brainer, and honestly we wish we made the leap a long time ago!
DISCLAIMER: This post is sponsored by Nova Scotia Power, however all opinions expressed are my own.
Whether you’re looking for a greener option for heating and cooling, or you’re looking to save some money: a heat pump is a game changer!
HEAT PUMP PLANNING TIPS
If you’re intimidated by the process that’s totally fair, but Nova Scotia Power actually makes it so easy to find a contractor that can help you get started. Simply visit their website, and use their “Find a Heat Pump Contractor” tool simply by searching your location.
From there a vetted list of contractors are provided for your specific area! You can see current promotions/rebates, warranty term, and of course contact information.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT TYPE OF UNIT I NEED FOR MY SPACE?
Whether you need to heat or cool a specific room, or need a solution for your whole home, there’s a heat pump to fit your needs. The type of system you choose will depend on your home, the type of heating system your currently have in place. The best way to find the right system for your home is with a licensed, preferred contractor.
If you want to learn the lingo, the 3 main types of heat pumps are: Ductless Systems (“Mini-Splits”), Ducted Systems, and Geothermal. I’ve included a brief explanation of them below.
Ductless Systems (“Mini-Splits”):
If your home is heated using baseboards, hot water, wood heat or older-style hot water radiators, then your home most likely doesn’t have ductwork throughout it. In this case, a ductless mini-split system might be perfect. In a ductless system, indoor units are wall-mounted in the rooms they will heat and cool.
Ducted Systems
If your home had a traditional oil forced air heat, or if you’re building new, then a ducted heat pump might be right for you. This system takes advantage of your existing forced air ductwork and distributes heated (or cooled) air through it. An outdoor unit extracts heat from their air (even in the winter), which is connected to an indoor unit to distribute the air throughout the home.
Geothermal:
Most heat pumps are “air source”, which means they use the air outside of the home whereas geothermal systems are “ground source”. Rather than using the outside air, geothermal systems take heat from (and dump heat into) the ground.
Typically, geothermal heat pump systems are considered for new construction, rather than an add-on to an existing system or home.
WHY CHOOSE A HEAT PUMP ?
✔️ More energy efficient versus traditional heating and cooling options
✔️ Saves money and reduces energy consumption
✔️ Dehumidifies the air (while also cooling)
✔️ Filters the air from dust and common allergens
✔️ Year-round comfort (heating and cooling)
✔️ Most cost effective way to heat and cool your home
✔️ Heat pumps not only are more energy efficient, meaning you save money while also using less energy, but Nova Scotia power recently announced they are committed to 80% renewable energy by 2030, so it’s also a greener choice long term.
HOW DOES THE FINANCING WORK??
Whether you choose to purchase your heat pump upfront, or opt for the Nova Scotia Power On-billing there are definitely options when it comes to making your purchase! All of which can be taken care of by your contractor! Isn’t that amazing?? Offering competitive rates with up to 12 year terms. Nova Scotia Power customers have the option to finance heat pumps (simply add it to your regular power bill), and you can pay it off at any time, without penalty.
There are also rebates available that you can apply for with Efficiency Nova Scotia. Just be sure to plan your home energy assessment before your heat pump install.
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