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Heat Pumps
Heat Pumps for Rhode Island Homes
One system that heats in winter and cools in summer. Here is how a heat pump works, what to ask before you switch, and how to get a free estimate.
How They Work
Moving Heat Instead of Making It
A heat pump uses electricity to move heat. In winter it pulls heat from outside into your home. In summer it pulls heat out of your house.
ENERGY STAR explains that heat pumps move heat rather than converting it from fuel, as combustion heating systems do. It also says an air-source heat pump can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a home than the electrical energy it consumes.
Ask About a Heat Pump
Rhode Island Winters
Will It Keep Up When It Is Cold?
It is the first question most people ask, and it deserves a straight answer.
Tested for Low Temperatures
ENERGY STAR requirements for air-source heat pumps include third-party verified low-temperature performance, tested down to 5°F. For extreme cold, ENERGY STAR says cold-climate models perform most efficiently when paired with backup heating.
Models Differ
Cold-weather performance varies by equipment. We confirm the right system for your home before we recommend one.
Your Home Matters
Layout, how you heat today and which rooms run cold all shape the answer. See heating options to compare.
Two Ways to Install
Ducted or Ductless
Both are heat pumps. The better fit depends on whether your home already has ducts.
Ducted Heat Pump
Heats and cools through ductwork, like a central system. A common fit when a home already has ducts in good shape.
Ductless Mini-Split
Wall or ceiling units connected to an outdoor unit, with no ducts needed. See mini-splits.
Before You Choose
Questions to Ask Any Contractor
ENERGY STAR publishes a bid checklist for new heating and cooling systems. Here are three of its questions.
- 01
How Will You Size It?
ENERGY STAR says the contractor should calculate your home's heating and cooling loads using the ACCA Manual J method or an equivalent.
- 02
What About My Ducts?
If you have ductwork, ask whether it will be checked for damage and leaks before a new system goes on it.
- 03
Which Rebates Might Apply?
Ask for information on local programs you may be eligible for. Current programs are on the rebates page.
ENERGY STAR notes that improper installation can reduce a system's performance by as much as 30%.
Heat Pump Questions
Do Heat Pumps Also Cool My House?
Yes. A heat pump pulls heat out of your home in summer, so one system covers heating and cooling.
Should I Choose a Heat Pump or a Furnace?
It depends on your home, how it is heated now and what incentives apply. We compare the options with you during the estimate. If your furnace is the question, see furnace replacement.
Do I Need Ductwork?
Not always. Ductless mini-splits are made for homes without ducts, older homes and additions.
Will a Heat Pump Work for My Home?
That is what the estimate is for. We look at your current system, your layout and your goals, then tell you plainly whether it makes sense.
Are There Rebates for Heat Pumps?
Programs, amounts and eligibility change, so we confirm current details before you decide. We will not quote a number until it is confirmed. See rebates.
Is the Estimate Free?
Yes. Estimates are free and come with no obligation.
Sources: ENERGY STAR, Air-Source Heat Pumps and ENERGY STAR, Heating and Air Conditioning Installation Bid Comparison Checklist.
Get a Free Estimate
Tell us what is going on with your system. We will get back to you with next steps.