Whether you’re looking to replace an air conditioner and furnace that are on their last leg, or you want to add some heating and cooling power to your home to make it more comfortable throughout the year, there is a heat pump solution waiting for you. But with so many options, it can be tough to know which is going to meet your needs without wasting energy (and money).
Here’s an overview of all the heat pump options available from Princeton Air, the experts in heat pump installation and overall home comfort throughout central New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania.
What All Heat Pump Types Have in Common
All heat pump types offer both heating and cooling using electricity, making them an energy efficient choice for year-round comfort. Even in the variable climate of Princeton, NJ, heat pumps excel at maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Their efficiency comes from transferring heat rather than generating it, resulting in lower energy consumption compared to traditional systems. One of the biggest differentiators among heat pump models is their distribution system, which can be either ducted or ductless, influencing how they deliver conditioned air throughout your home.
Types of Heat Pumps
Ducted vs. Ductless Systems
Ducted heat pumps use a network of ducts to distribute conditioned air throughout the home. This type of system is similar to traditional central air systems but with the efficiency and versatility of a heat pump. Ducted systems are great for homes that already have ductwork in place or for those looking to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the entire home. They’re often hidden from view, offering a clean aesthetic.
Ductless mini-splits, as the name suggests, do not require ductwork. Instead, they consist of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor air handlers. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, allowing for precise temperature control in different areas of the home. Mini-splits are perfect for homes without existing ducts, older homes, or spaces that are hard to heat and cool, such as attics, basements, and additions.
Air-Source vs. Geothermal Heat Pumps
Air-Source Heat Pumps: These systems transfer heat between your home and the outside air, providing efficient heating and cooling. Air-source heat pumps are a popular choice for many homeowners. They are versatile, can be used in most climates, and are a great upgrade from traditional HVAC systems.
Geothermal Heat Pumps: Geothermal systems draw heat from the ground, offering even greater efficiency due to the consistent underground temperatures. While more expensive to install due to excavation, they provide substantial long-term energy savings and work exceptionally well in extreme weather conditions. Geothermal heat pumps are ideal for those looking for the most efficient heating and cooling solution with a lower environmental impact.
Which System Is Better for Your Home?
Choosing the right option for your home will depend on a myriad of factors, that can include your own personal comfort preferences, your current heating and cooling system, and the layout of your home. Many older or historic homes in New Jersey present unique challenges when it comes to heating and cooling. The lack of existing ductwork, outdated insulation, or unique layouts can make installing traditional HVAC systems more complicated.
Benefits of Mini Split Heat Pumps:
- Easier Installation: Since mini splits don’t require ducts, they are easier to install in older homes that do not already have ductwork. Installation involves running a small conduit from the outdoor unit to the indoor units, minimizing disruption to the home’s structure.
- Zone Control: Ductless systems allow you to heat or cool specific areas of the home, which is perfect for older homes with varying needs from room to room.
- Energy Efficiency: Mini splits are highly efficient because they avoid the energy loss that can be associated with leaky ductwork.
Ducted Systems for Older Homes:
- Uniform Comfort: If your older home already has ducts or if a central system is preferred, ducted heat pumps can provide even, whole-home comfort. This system works best when ducts are in good condition or can be easily repaired.
- Hidden Appearance: For those who prefer their heating and cooling system to be out of sight, ducted systems keep all the equipment hidden, with only vents visible in each room.
Heat Pump Brands: How to Choose?
Now that you know a little about the types of heat pump configurations, what are the best heat pump brands to choose from? At Princeton Air, we have spent over five decades in the HVAC and home performance industry and have seen manufacturers come and go with the advancements in home comfort technology. We trust multiple brands and manufacturers when it comes to heat pumps, however, we will only recommend the right heat pump system for your home, not the right system for our sales quotas. Here are the heat pump manufacturers we trust:
Trane Heat Pumps
Princeton Air trusts Trane ducted heat pumps for their reliability and advanced technology, providing year-round comfort with quiet operation and potential energy savings. As a Trane Comfort Specialist, Princeton Air's team is highly trained to deliver top-quality installation and repair services for these systems.
Mitsubishi Electric
Known for their superior energy efficiency, quality, and performance, Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps are a reliable solution for whole-home heating and cooling. As a Mitsubishi Electric Diamond Dealer, Princeton Air's team is highly trained and experienced with these products, ensuring expert guidance and installation.
Rebates & On-Bill Repayment Available for Heat Pump Installation
There are a range of incentives, rebates, and financing options to help you save on energy efficient home upgrades, including federal tax credits and utility incentives. And if you are looking to spread out the cost of your comfort and efficiency upgrades, on-bill repayment is a convenient option. It allows for financing an upgrade at zero interest over a period of either 84 or 120 months. The repayment is simply added to your existing utility bill, eliminating the need for additional statements or accounts.
Making the Right Choice
Mini splits are often the go-to solution for older homes due to their ease of installation, energy efficiency, and ability to provide targeted comfort. Ducted systems, on the other hand, offer a seamless and traditional approach to whole-home heating and cooling. Princeton Air’s team of experts can help guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring you select the best heat pump model for your home’s needs. Our professional installation services guarantee that your new system will be set up correctly, maximizing comfort and efficiency.
JS Needham-Master HVACR Lic. # 3980 | M Burt-Plumbing Lic. # 8389 | NJHIC # 13VH00255200 | PAHIC # PA001066
