7 Ways to Avoid Issues When It Comes to Heat Pump Installation
When you’re in the process of purchasing a new heat pump, preparing for the heat pump installation will ensure that you get the highest possible efficiency.
Addressing these seven issues before installation will help you cover the major factors that can impact the long-term conditioning costs:
- Make your home as energy efficient as possible. Some projects, such as adding insulation to the attic and sealing air leaks, are inexpensive and contribute to better efficiency for years to come. A home that’s as efficient as possible may not need as large a heat pump, which means you’ll save money on its purchase and ongoing conditioning bills.
- Ask the HVAC contractor to carefully assess your ductwork. It should be installed inside the insulated area of your home to minimize thermal losses.
- Verify that the contractor will test the ductwork for air leaks. The leakage should be no more than 10 percent of the system’s airflow. The ductwork is a significant part of the heat pump installation, helping to keep energy bills lower.
- Be certain that the contractor will fasten the ductwork joints with mastic. Duct tape should never be used because its adhesive doesn’t last long enough and the joints can separate quickly, driving up energy bills and lowering your indoor air quality.
- Wrap the ductwork with insulation that has a value of R-8 if it has to run through unconditioned spaces like the basement or the attic.
- Request a return register in each room of your home to boost airflow through the heat pump’s indoor blower.
- Choose a space for the outdoor condenser for the heat pump that receives little or no sunshine. It will make a difference in the cooling efficiency in the summer. Make sure that there is plenty of space on all four sides for adequate ventilation. Placing it away from vegetation that creates a lot of litter will help keep the area cleaner, increasing the efficiency of the heat pump.
If you would like to learn more about heat pump installation, contact Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We’ve provided HVAC services for the greater Cincinnati area since 1910.
Image via Shutterstock.com