Heat Pump Installation & Buying Guide
Thinking about upgrading to an energy-efficient heating and cooling system? A heat pump is a smart investment for homeowners looking to save on energy costs while maintaining year-round comfort. Utilizing a heat pump system as the main heating and cooling source can reduce monthly energy costs by up to 50%. Additionally, heat pumps offer incredible flexibility because they can be the sole heating and cooling source or add supplemental HVAC needs. In this guide, we'll highlight how a heat pump operates and provide an overview of the heat pump installation process, including essential heat pump installation requirements, step-by-step instructions on how to install a heat pump, and expert recommendations to ensure a successful heat pump installation for your home. Particularly in the Atlanta and Marietta area, finding a low cost way to keep family comfortable can be a challenge and heat pumps offer a great solution.
What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump transfers heat rather than generating it, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional HVAC systems and allows it to heat and cool a house. Unlike furnaces and air conditioners that rely on fuel combustion or electrical resistance heating, heat pumps move heat between the indoors and outdoors, depending on the season. For example, a heat pump moves hot air out of the house in the summer, making the home cool. A classic example of a heat pump is the refrigerator that removes hot air and allows the unit to keep food chilled or frozen.
Heat pumps operate using refrigerants and a compressor system to transfer heat. Here's how they function in different seasons:
In Winter (Heating Mode): The heat pump extracts heat from the outdoor air (even in cold temperatures) and transfers it inside to warm your home.
In Summer (Cooling Mode): The system reverses the process, removing heat from inside your home and releasing it outdoors, effectively working as an air conditioner.
Additionally, depending on the type of heat pump and usage patterns heat pumps maintain a long lifespan. For example, some sources estimate the average lifespan of a heat pump is between 10 and 15 years. Conversely, others estimate an expected lifespan of 15-20 years. And, some ground-source models can last as long as 20-25 years. If you're looking for a durable home heating system that will help you cut down on home energy costs, installing a heat pump may be the right choice for your home.
Types of Heat Pumps
There are a few different types of heat pumps to consider, and the best choice for your home depends on factors such as climate, desired savings, whether you plan to use a heat pump as a primary or supplemental heat source, and other considerations.
Air-Source
Air-source heat pumps work to heat and cool the home by drawing heat from the outside air during winter, moving it indoors and rejecting it outside during summer months. There are two main types of air-source heat pumps: air-to-air and air-to-water. Converting your home's heating system from an electric furnace to an all-electric air-source heat pump can reduce energy costs by up to 50%. They can also reduce your water heating bills by 25-50% if they provide domestic hot water heating. As a bonus, you might be able to earn a tax credit for purchasing a qualified Energy Star air-source heat pump.
Air-to-Air
Air-to-air heat pumps work by moving air from one end of the system to the other, and are the most common style of air-source heat pump. Typically, homes with duct work ventilation distribution systems rely on these pumps.
Air-to-Water
Air-to-water heat pump systems are less common than air-to-air systems, but follow the same heat distribution principle. They are connected to a hydronic (water) heating system within the home. Heat is drawn from the outside air and distributed via the hydronic system during winter months. Air-to-water heat pumps that cool are quite rare but they draw heat from the home through the hydronic system and 'pump' it outside. These are most commonly used in homes with radiant heating systems.
Ground-Source
Ground-source heat pumps may also be referred to as geothermal, earth-energy, or geoexchange, and these use the earth or groundwater to heat and cool your home. They are available in either an open-loop or closed-loop system and are suitable for use with both forced air and radiant heating systems. They are extremely energy-efficient, especially in areas that experience harsh winter weather, with costs at around 65% of a standard electric heating system. Choosing a unit that can also provide domestic hot water heating can also reduce your water heating bills by 25-50%.
Open-Loop
An open-loop ground-source heat pump system uses an underground body of water for heating and cooling the home. The pump relies on a well system for drawing water up to the heat exchanger, which extracts the heat. Next, the water returns to the original body of water via another well (or above ground into a stream or pond).
Closed-Loop
Closed-loop ground-source heat pump systems use a run of underground piping in order to extract and reject heat from and to the earth. Because the system is closed and pressurized, it requires the least annual maintenance compared to other types of heat pumps.
Ductless Mini-Split
Ductless mini-split systems use heat pump technology in order to cool the home, and some units can provide supplemental heat via an independent indoor air handling unit. They are ideal for use in homes where ductwork is not physically possible or economical, and boast a compact size. They carry a higher upfront cost, but can provide a zoned heating solution which may cut down on monthly energy costs. With the large temperature ranges in the greater Atlanta area, working with a local HVAC company to install a ductless mini-split could help improve the heating and cooling efficiency of your home.
Heat Pump Features: What to Look for When Purchasing a Heat Pump
BTU Capacity
When shopping for a heat pump for your home, estimate approximately 20 BTUs for every square foot of living space. This number will also be impacted by factors such as ceiling height, window and door size, and number of inhabitants. The best way to determine the right sized heat pump for your home is to have a qualified heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional assess your home.
COP
The coefficient of performance (COP) of a heat pump measures the ratio of either heat removed or provided in BTU per BTU of energy input. An air-source heat pump typically has a COP of 2.3-3.3, whereas a ground-source heat pump typically has a COP of 2.5-3.8. This means that for every kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity supplied to a heat pump with a COP of 2.8, that 2.8 kWh of heating is supplied to the home. The higher the COP, the more efficient the unit, and vice versa.
HSPF
The heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) measures the efficiency of an air-source heat pump. The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the unit, and vice versa. It specifically looks at BTU heat output relative to watt-hours of electricity used over the heating season. An air-source heat pump typically has an HSPF of 6.7-10, whereas an open-loop ground-water system typically has an HSPF of 10.7-12.8, and a closed-loop ground-water system is about 9.2-11 on the HSPF scale.
Warranty
Heat pumps come with a warranty, which covers most repairs or defects. Many big name manufacturers now offer 5-10 year warranties on the major components. As a general rule, warranties are better on premium brands. You may also be able to purchase an extended warranty for an additional fee.
Zone-Controlled Heating
Having the ability to heat and cool specific areas of your home by way of zoned-controlled heating can be another way to cut down on energy consumption while increasing comfort, and is an appealing option for many homeowners.
Desuperheater
Look for a unit with this option if you are interested in using your heat pump to provide domestic hot water heating in addition to home heating.
Noise Levels
The outdoor compressor unit of a heat pump can be quite noisy. If possible, look for a unit with an outdoor sound rating of 7.6 bels or less. The lower the value, the quieter the unit is and vice versa.
Variable-Speed Control
This helps to prevent swings in temperature by delivering air in a more controlled, slower, and quieter manner.
Heat Pump Average Costs: How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
Heat pumps typically have a higher upfront cost than a standard furnace, but the return on monthly energy savings can pay for itself several times over during the lifetime of the heat pump. Air-source heat pumps tend to cost less than ground-source models.
Surveys show that most American homeowners spend approximately $5,000-$10,000 when installing a heat pump. Prices vary drastically depending on your needs, and most manufacturers do not publish the prices of their units, so it's best to speak with your local HVAC professional to get an accurate price quote. Costs can increase drastically depending on the amount of pipe and electrical work necessary. COP and HSPF ratings will factor substantially into the price of a heat pump, as will whether the unit is considered low-, mid-, or high-quality. Look for Energy Star-rated heat pumps for the biggest energy savings.
Depending on where you live, you may be required to obtain a permit prior to having your heat pump installed. This can cost as little as $50 and can run into the hundreds of dollars. You may also need to have an inspection completed by your city or municipality, depending on local bylaws.
When it comes to purchasing a new heat pump for your home, less is not always best. You may be tempted to purchase the least expensive model available, but given the major role your heat pump plays in your family's day-to-day life, it's worth making the additional investment. The same goes for choosing a heat pump installer. It may be tempting to save a few bucks by hiring the company that provides the lowest quote, but you want to ensure the installer you choose has the right level of experience, expertise, and can provide the quality service necessary for your heat pump for years to come.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Heat Pump Installation Process
Like any HVAC installation, the heat pump installation process is a complicated endeavor, and is not something that should be attempted as a do-it-yourself project. It might be tempting to save on the installation fee, but heat pumps contain several detailed components including electrical, ducting, plumbing, and gas, that require the expertise and specialized tools of a qualified HVAC professional. Heat pumps are a specialized technology that requires the right level of skill for proper installation and service.
That said, it's good to understand the process of how a heat pump is installed. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how to install a mini-split heat pump system.
Step 1: Install the condenser unit.
This is the part of the system located outside. The manufacturer's instructions should tell you how much clearance is necessary for your unit. Bolt the condenser unit to the ground or install on brackets up against the house. Just be sure to clean the area of dirt and debris first, and ensure it's beyond the 'drip edge' of your roof -- otherwise rain and snow could fall onto the unit, potentially causing damage or decreased performance.
Step 2: Install the indoor air handling mount(s).
Install the mounting plate on studs first, before attaching the air handling unit. For best results, ensure each indoor air handling unit remains within 30 feet of the condenser. As with the outdoor unit, the manufacturer provides instructions detailing the necessary clearance for the air handling unit. Next, drill a hole from the mounting position to the outdoor unit, which makes the line connect between the two.
Step 3: Mount air handling unit.
Carefully attach the indoor air handling unit(s) to the mounting brackets. Next, feed the control wire, refrigerant lines, and condensate drain hose through the previously drilled hole. This sets up the connection with the outdoor unit.
Step 4: Connect the indoor and outdoor units.
Next, connect the control wire, refrigerant lines, and condensate drain hose. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the connections between the two units.
Step 5: Cover the lines.
Typically, plastic covering hides unsightly lines on the outside of your home. This helps with the overall look and curb appeal of your home.
Step 6: Make final connections.
Finally, you'll need to connect a gauge manifold and a vacuum pump to the refrigerant lines. This detects any leaks and drys the lines, if necessary, before pumping refrigerant into the system. Once this step is complete you'll need to run the unit to test that it's working properly.
Again, heat pump installation remains a complicated undertaking with many complex steps. Therefore, experts recommend that only qualified HVAC professionals work on heat pump projects. However, homeowners should have an idea of the steps involved in the process of installing a heat pump.
Options for Heat Pump Maintenance
Proactive and routine HVAC maintenance completed by a qualified HVAC professional should be part of your annual home care and management. If you've installed a heat pump, then an annual check up is still a best practice. Fortunately, most heat pumps are low-maintenance and do not require much in the way of upkeep, aside from ensuring the coils, fans, and filters are kept clean -- which is generally something homeowners can check themselves. However, due to the complexity of the various heat pump systems, leave repairs and major maintenance to qualified professionals.
Heat Pump Installation Requirements
Before installing a heat pump, homeowners must meet certain heat pump installation requirements, including:
Proper Electrical Capacity: Most heat pumps require a dedicated 240V circuit for safe operation.
Adequate Space for Indoor and Outdoor Units: Clearance guidelines ensure proper airflow and prevent obstructions.
Permits and Local Regulations: Some cities require permits for new HVAC installations; check your local codes.
Ductwork Inspection (for Ducted Systems): If using existing ductwork, it must be sealed and in good condition.
Energy Efficiency Ratings: Choosing a heat pump with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating maximizes savings.
Meeting these heat pump installation requirements ensures a smooth setup and long-term efficiency.
How Snappy Services Can Help with Your Heating and Cooling Needs
At Snappy Services, we understand that a reliable and efficient heating and cooling system in Atlanta is essential for year-round comfort in your home. Whether you need a new heat pump installation, routine maintenance, or reliable HVAC repairs, our team of skilled technicians is here to provide expert solutions tailored to your needs. We specialize in energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, ensuring your home stays comfortable while helping you save on energy costs.
From selecting the right heat pump for your home to ensuring a seamless installation process, we make heating and cooling hassle-free. Our team offers transparent pricing, same-day emergency service, and top-quality workmanship in Atlanta, Marietta, and surrounding areas.
Ready to upgrade your HVAC system? Contact Snappy Services today to schedule your heat pump installation or HVAC service and experience the comfort and efficiency you deserve!