Heat Pumps on the Parkland: Do They Make Sense Here?
Heat pumps get plenty of attention, but Central Alberta's winters are long and very cold. The question isn't whether a heat pump can heat in January, but how much of the year it can carry.
Request an HVAC technicianHybrid is common
Most heat pumps here are paired with a gas furnace. The heat pump handles mild days and the shoulder seasons, and the furnace takes over in the deep cold.
Switch-over point
The thermostat or control decides when to change from heat pump to furnace. That setting affects comfort and running costs, so ask how it will be set.
Defrost
On cold, damp days the outdoor unit melts frost from its coil now and then and may steam. It's normal and brief.
Summer bonus
The same equipment cools in summer, so you get central air without a separate unit.
Snow and siting
Raise the outdoor unit above the snow line and keep it out from under roof edges where ice can fall.
Questions to ask
How cold can this model heat at full output? Does my panel need an upgrade? How will it work with my existing furnace?
Get a quote
See heat pumps and send a request with your home's details.
Backup heat options
Where there's no gas line, some heat pumps use electric strips for backup. That works, but running costs on very cold days can be high, so ask how often backup heat is likely to run.
Noise and neighbours
Modern outdoor units are fairly quiet, but placement still matters. Keep them away from bedroom windows and close property lines where possible.
Rebates
Government and utility programs for heat pumps change often. Check what's currently offered before you sign, and ask the contractor whether the equipment qualifies.
More heating and cooling guides
Request an HVAC technician
Repairs, renovations and new projects. Tell us what you need and we'll pass it straight to an HVAC technician, who will call you to go over the job and give you a quote.
- Heating and cooling repairs, renovations and new projects
- Red Deer and the Central Alberta towns around it
- Get a quote before any work starts
No heat or no cooling in Red Deer?
Send a request and an HVAC technician will get in touch. Requests answered 7 days a week.
Prefer email? [email protected]