| How Much Does a Heat Pump Cost? |
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| | | A heat pump is basically an air conditioner that works in both directions; it heats your home in winter and cools it in summer using just one equipment system instead of two. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Expect to pay around $1,500 -$4,500 to add an air source ("air-to-air") electric heat pump in an average home (3 ton capacity). Self-contained through-the-wall or window units in single rooms don't require ductwork; the more common split-systems (with both indoor and outdoor equipment) require the same ductwork as central air conditioning. Air-source heat pumps work best in climates where temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Higher-end models have options such as a two-stage compressor for more power when additional heat is needed or including a hot water heater as part of the system.
- For about $2,100 -$5,500, a dual-fuel air-source system combines an electric heat pump with a gas or propane furnace and existing ductwork. Ideal for regions with extremely cold winters, a dual-fuel system uses the best fuel source depending on outside temperatures.
- It can run $3,500 -$7,500 or more to install an geothermal electric heat pump in a typical family home. Also called ground-source or geoexchange, geothermal heat pumps work well in cold climates. Typically geothermal systems are inexpensive to operate and have no noisy outdoor equipment. However, installing a geothermal system usually involves digging holes 150 to 250 feet deep.
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| What should be included: | - Most heat pump units look a lot like a typical central air conditioning system, and--being basically a variation on forced-air heating--they require ductwork. EnergyRight.com provides overviews of air-source, dual-fuel and geothermal heat pumps.
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| Discounts: | - Check if your power company has arranged any discount packages from local dealers of energy-efficient heating systems. If you need help with financing, your local power company may provide loans for this type of energy-efficient home improvement.
- Until Dec. 31, 2007, consumers buying a high-efficiency electric heat pump can claim a federal income tax credit of up to $300. The Alliance to Save Energy lists the criteria for the tax credit, which also covers other improvements such as air conditioning, water heaters, windows and doors.
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| Shopping for a heat pump: | |
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Article updated November 2007 |
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Recent Posts |
| Amount: $8,100.00 |
Amana heat pump
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| Posted by: Max Moore in Middletown, OH. | Purchased: October, 2007 |
| Type: Amana 16 seer, variable speed fan |
| Removal of oil furnace and installation of the heatpump was well done. But I have been unable to determine whether the system is working correctly, given the absence of a manual. The thermostat(in heating mode)calls for high heat (103 degr.)when the ambient temp is in the 30's and during the next cycle will produce heat output in the 80's. The manufacturer (Goodman)is unwilling to discuss just how the system should be operating. I'll approach the local installer again for answers to my questions. |
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