FAQ

  Do I need to replace my current heating system if I want to have a heat pump installed?

No. Though high-efficiency heat pumps may be configured to work as the sole heating system, they are often used to supplement an existing system (for example, by installing a heat pump in one room and using the central oil boiler system to heat the rest of the building).

  Do heat pumps work in really cold weather?

Short answer is yes, but the exact temperature depends on your model. The high efficiency units well in cold weather. Some are rated to work down to -30°C.

  Why is the air coming out of my heat pump seem not to be as hot as the air that comes out of my furnace?

Heat pumps and furnaces provide heat in different ways. Furnaces send hot air to the house in bursts, while heat pumps provide warm air for longer periods of time. The total amount of heat is the same, but heat pumps produce the heat more efficiently, and the steady heat can improve comfort.

  Why does my heat pump pause for a short period during cold weather?

In cold weather, heat pumps will occasionally run through a short defrost cycle to remove ice from the outdoor unit. When this happens, the heat pump temporarily stops producing heat. The defrost cycle lasts for only a few minutes and is part of the normal operation of a heat pump.

  Why is there sometimes a gurgling noise coming from my heat pump?

The indoor and outdoor units of a heat pump are connected by copper pipes that carry refrigerant between the two. As the refrigerant moves through the pipes, it can produce a gurgling sound. This sound should not be cause for concern. It is part of the normal operation of a heat pump.