The Truth About Heat Pumps

Bosch Heat Pump

There are many myths surrounding heat pumps, mostly due to it's rapid development over recent years. Heat pumps were invented in the 1850's, using several theories related to air conditioning. It's original purpose, however, was to extract moisture from salt water, leaving only the salt behind. Thus, the original purpose was not even for the purpose of heating or cooling - it was for dehumidification. Over the years, most notably after World War II in Europe, the heat pump saw massive improvements. It required less materials than the standard heating equipment and was far more efficient than anything else at that time. It was an effective means of heating indoor spaces, but due to the exponentially lower cost of coal and oil, it was an unpopular option for most households.

Because the heat pump has developed so much in a relatively short amount of time, and started out with a different purpose than it has today, there are a variety of myths surrounding these units. Most of these misconceptions are easily debunked by learning about the processes and how they function, which you can do more in depth by reading these "How Stuff Works" articles:

If you're curious about how air conditioning works, here is an article that does a great job of explaining that process: How Stuff Works: Air Conditioning.

If you're more curious about how a heat pump works, here is an article that explains how both an air-source and a ground-source heat pump heat and cool indoor spaces: How Stuff Works: Heat Pumps.

Myth #1: Heat Pumps Only Heat

The United States differs from European countries in many ways, but perhaps one of the most significant is their lack of central air conditioning. If a building does not have central air here in the USA, we typically try to find ways to keep our spaces cool during hot seasons. In Europe, central air is viewed as more of a luxury than a necessity. Because I could not find an answer for why this myth exists, my personal theory is that because it was mostly used for heating purposes in Europe, and because it is called a "Heat" pump, people in America were unaware of the full range of capabilities this equipment really has.

Additionally, most people are familiar with geothermals. These units are extremely popular in the United States because the government provides a 30% tax credit to individuals who get one installed in their home. This is because they are considered an economically friendly alternative to a standard gas furnace, and because only one unit is needed, it saves on electric usage as well. If you know what a geothermal is, you know it is able to both heat and cool a home. What you may not know is that "geothermal" is really just another name for a ground-source heat pump. Ground-source heat pumps and air-source heat pumps work the same exact way with a different heat source. (Read How Stuff Works: Heat Pumps if you would like to learn more about how heat pumps use heat transfer for both heating and cooling.)

Myth #2: Heat Pumps Do Not Work in Cold Climates

This may have been true for older models, but as technology continues to improve, heat pumps are being built to withstand extremely cold temperatures. Having already been more prominent in the southern states, we are now seeing a spike in popularity for heat pumps in the north as well, boosting their numbers even more across the nation, with the exception of a few Canadian-border areas, like northern Montana and North Dakota. Intense winters there are still a bit too harsh and unpredictable for heat pumps to be reliable, though they are continuing to improve, so it may not be long until we see these units in every part of the country.

Here in Ohio, even though heat pumps heat and cool, we typically recommend pairing an air-source heat pump with a furnace. This is called "auxiliary heat", and will provide you a back-up heat source when it gets extremely cold outside. Heat pumps will work perfectly fine in cold temperatures, but they may have a harder time keeping up when the outside temperatures dip below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. A heat pump uses less energy than the auxiliary heat, and since it will only use the auxiliary heat when it's needed, this saves you money on your heating bills while also providing a reliable HVAC set up for your home.

In places where the temperatures drop into the negatives on a regular basis, heat pumps may not be the best solution, but for moderate climates like Northwest Ohio, heat pumps are an excellent option!

Myth #3: Heat Pumps Are Expensive

There is a larger upfront cost for a heat pump, but over time, it will end up saving you money on your utility bills. The government also allows a 30% tax credit up to $2,000, which you can learn more about here: EnergyStar.gov Air Source Heat Pumps.

Generally speaking, the labor it takes to install a heat pump is going to be about the same as a typical air conditioner or furnace. The cost of a heat pump and furnace system will be about $1000 - $2000 more than a typical air conditioner and furnace system, so the tax credit is actually able to make up for most or all of the price difference.

(Disclaimer: These amounts are assumptions based on our experience as a contractor, and are more reflective of a 2 to 3 Ton HVAC package.)

Qualifying for the tax credit is an obvious win, but if that is not an option, we've done the math on energy savings for you.

Logistically speaking, if you were to save on average $80 each month in electric bills, that's about $960 each year. At that rate, you could make up the difference in energy savings in less than 2 years. Heat Pumps are efficient, and that's their most valuable trait. If you can afford the extra $1,000-$2,000 it costs to upgrade to a heat pump, I'd encourage you to do it. When you start looking into replacing that old furnace and air conditioning system, make sure you find a company that has had training on heat pumps if that is something you'd like to learn more about. They have some complex electronics that techs need to understand when setting them up, so be sure to ask about the kinds of training they've gone through as well.

Overall Review

Our company has installed many of these systems, and almost everyone loves them. In cases where something went wrong, it was either because of the furnace or a lack of proper maintenance. These units are lasting a long time before needing any work done, which is something we really like to see. Our customers have been thrilled with the results, they love the clean look and they're impressed with their new energy bills. Please leave comments with any questions, or let us know if you've had a good experience with your heat pump!

If you're interested in learning more about the brands we trust and carry, we have an online catalog for easy browsing here: https://www.greenesplumbing.com/products

HVAC Filters

What's A Filter?

If you have heating and cooling equipment in your home, regardless of what kind, it will have some sort of filter. This filter can be made of a variety of materials, and will usually looks like this:

Reusable, Washable Metal Filter

Disposable, Pleated Air Filter

Disposable, Carbon Fiber Air Filter

How Often Should I Change My Filter?

Filters, with the exception of electric ones, will need to be cleaned or changed multiple times each year. The frequency depends on the size of your home, household, and animals, along with some seasonal factors, like dust and moisture. It's a good practice to monitor your filter, checking it each month. If it has a dusty film on it, it will need changed soon. If it has a blanket of dirt covering the side, it is well beyond needing changed. We typically recommend changing it between 3 and 6 months, and writing the date on your new ones to keep track of how old they are.

Why Do I Need A Filter?

Most people know to change their filters, but not many people understand why it's so important. HVAC systems draw in air from the home through a duct return. A filter is a thin barrier that prevents dirt and dust from entering the unit, keeping the fan, motor, and coil clean and able to work efficiently. If no filter is used, these components will get filthy, and dirt will be allowed to pass through the unit. Over time, this will cause parts to corrode or gum up, and could cause the unit to burn through parts and need replaced sooner than normal. The filter's job is to protect the internal parts of the unit and prevent this kind of damage. It allows air to pass through while catching all the pollutants, dust, and grime before it enters the unit.

How Do I Change My Filter?

Changing your filter is super easy once you know how to do it correctly. Follow these steps to know what to look for when changing your filter, what's normal, and when to worry!

1. Locate your filter

Typical Filter Box

Filters will be in the return air ducts going to your unit. If you do not know which side your return air duct is, check the ducts attached to your unit. If you find either a slot 1 to 4 inches wide, or something that looks like this, you've found your filter box!

If there is no filter in your filter box, and you do not know how long your unit has gone without one, it would be best to have the unit cleaned out and checked for any issues. Filters can get pulled into the fan once they get too dirty because the air can no longer pass through, so if you suspect it may be super dirty or a filter may be stuck inside the unit, call an HVAC company. They will check all the components to ensure they are working properly, and clean up any excessive dirt and dust that entered the unit when the filter was not there.

Filter in the Return Air Vent

Filters can also be in return vents (as pictured). Look for a vent higher up on your wall or on your ceiling that looks larger than the rest of your vents. This is your return vent, and some systems are set up with filters at the vent rather than closer to the unit in the ductwork.

If you cannot find your filter, and do not believe you have one, it would be best to have one installed. Filters will keep the inside of the unit clean, and prevent damage caused by dirt. Without a filter, you run the risk of ruining the unit and having to replace it much sooner than expected.

2. Purchasing A New Filter

Make sure you know the size of your filter so you know what size you need to purchase. The size should be on the side of the filter you currently have in place. If not, measure the dimensions of your ductwork. Typical sizes will be 16x20 or 16x25, but they could be slightly different depending on your situation. Most hardware stores, like Lowe's or Home Depot will have filters available for you in store, but if you prefer online options, Filterbuy is an excellent choice that's easy to use.

We recommend the TruBlu brand. They're inexpensive and they work great! Honestly, the cheaper the better when it comes to filters (you don't hear that very often, but in this case, it's true). Big name brands might tell you expensive filters help with allergies, but they won't do much more than a cheap one. Remember earlier, when we mentioned a filter is designed to let air pass through freely while trapping all the dirt and dust and crap in your air? Well, generally speaking, the more expensive the filter, the thicker it tends to be. So while your filter may be fantastic at collecting what it's supposed to, it also causes air movement to slow way down. There are much better ways to purify the air in your home than with a filter that decreases the efficiency of your furnace or air conditioner.

If allergies or germs are a concern for you, try an Air Purifier. They're great for keeping your air clean, especially during pollen season! This link will take you to our trusted brand, Aerus, to learn more about their Air Scrubbers: https://www.airscrubberbyaerus.com/

3. Remove The Old Filter

Removing the old filter may be really easy, or you might need to use something to help you. Either way, it's alright. Remove the entire filter from the unit and check it to make sure there are no tears. Observe the amount of dirt on the filter as well, holding it up to the light to see if any light passes through. If you do not see any light, it's a good thing you're changing it! Filters that are left to get too dirty will suffocate the unit of air and cause the unit to freeze up! The coil will become a block of ice!

If you notice any pieces missing, listen to the unit when the fan is running. If there are any abnormal sounds coming from the unit, get it serviced in the near future. The pieces may have gotten stuck and could be limiting the efficiency of your unit.

If you have a reusable filter, wash it off with a hose and make sure it is completely cleaned off.

If you have an electric filter, make sure it is working correctly. There is usually a light that will flash or light up green when the filter is working correctly.

4. Place The New Filter

If you have a reusable filter, return it to its slot so that it fits the width of the duct.

If you are using a non-reusable filter, write the date on the top side of your new filter. This will help you keep track of when you last changed it and when your unit is due for another clean one. When you place it in the slot, make sure it is facing the right direction. If there are arrows, these indicate what direction the air should travel through it. As we mentioned earlier, your filter is on the return air side, so air will pass from the ductwork to the unit. Place the filter so the arrows are facing toward the unit.

Once this is done, make sure the entire width of the duct is covered. If there are any gaps on the sides, you have either placed it incorrectly or need a different size filter (refer to step 2 above).

5. Make Sure It Is Correct

Listen for any rattling or shaking noises from the filter. If you hear such noises, try adjusting it to mitigate these noises.

No noises or frequent movement? You're all set and can carry on with your day!

Congratulations!

You now know how to correctly change your filter, what to look for, and when it's serious enough to call the professionals. We hope you found this helpful, and look forward to your feedback!

www.greeneplumbing.com

419-443-8630

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Service Agreements (Maintenance)

Greene's Plumbing Heating & Electrical is happy to announce the grand release of our new Service Agreement plan. These plans are designed to give you an affordable option for regular maintenance on the equipment in your home. Our most basic subscription is for HVAC, and includes an annual Clean and Check for your furnace or heating equipment, an annual Clean and Check for your air conditioner or cooling equipment, an annually waived $200 off your first HVAC service call, 10% off HVAC materials, labor discounts on HVAC projects taking longer than a day, and priority scheduling. This basic subscription is only $17/month or $204 for the year.

We also have upgrades available to include either Electrical or Plumbing. To include one of these is an additional $15/month (total = $32/month), and will include annual inspections of the equipment in your home and an additional $200 off. If you would like to include both upgrades, we have the Trio Package available. This will include everything under all three agreements, and another $200 off of a service call, giving you a total of four $200 off service calls. To learn more about what these entail and how to signup, please click the "Services Page" button and scroll to the bottom section. https://www.greenesplumbing.com/services

Services Page