To improve the efficiency of your current heating system and save money on heating costs, you may want to add a heat pump to augment your current setup. There are a few different ways you can do this and the best option depends on the layout of your space, your budget, and individual heating goals. Below, we explore the benefits of integrating a ductless heat pump to your current system and what steps you should take to get started.
Top Benefits of Integrating a Ductless Heat Pump Into Your Existing Heating System
1. Brings Heat to New Spaces
A mini-split ductless heat pump offers the perfect solution if you want to heat a room that isn’t connected to your central heating system or can’t be reached by your wood burning stove. This includes attics, basements, new home additions, and other isolated spaces. With a mini-split, you can deliver heat precisely where you need it most without having to change the settings on your central thermostat or make other rooms too hot or cold. 2. Helps You Create Individual Heating Zones
If you have separate rooms that you want to keep at different temperatures, ductless systems can help you create individual heating zones that each have their own controls. Not only is this convenient and allows you to have more control over your comfort than ever, it can help you cut down on the cost to heat rooms that aren’t in use. For example, you can turn down the temperature in your bedroom and living room while you’re working in the office. This lets you maintain comfort in the space you’re using without heating areas that no one is in. 3. Gives You the Option of a Hybrid System
A hybrid system uses integrated controls to automatically switch your heating system between your ductless unit and your current heating system based on temperatures you have selected, so your space stays comfortably warm even when temperatures outside drop to frigid levels.
For instance, if you have a heat pump that works efficiently in temps down to -10 degrees Fahrenheit, you can set up your system to use the heat pump by default and switch to your existing heating method when temperatures dip below the threshold you set.
A hybrid heating system can save you between 30% to 50% on your heating bills. If you live in Massachusetts, you may be able to get a rebate to help cover the cost of installing integrated controls.
4. You Can Connect to Ductwork
If you have an existing furnace connected to ductwork, you can install a heat pump inside the ducts to help carry air throughout your space. You still get the benefits of energy efficiency and quiet operation, but you won’t need any indoor air handling units.
Whether you opt for ducted, ductless, or mixed ducted, your system will still work the same way. The mini-split will meet most of your heating needs, but on very cold days, your existing heating method will kick in as needed to maintain warmth and efficiency.
5 Steps To Follow When Upgrading To Mini-Split Heating
1. Get a Home Assessment
The first step to going ductless is to get an assessment of your space. This is a detailed examination of your insulation, windows and doors, etc. to determine what changes can be made to improve your comfort and decrease the amount of energy your new system will use.
2. Calculate the Size of Your System
Next, your ductless contractor will calculate how many BTUs your system will need to produce in order to heat your space effectively. Making sure your equipment is the right size is important because a system that is too small won’t keep you comfortable and a system that is too large will short cycle and increase your electric bills.
3. Determine Your System Placement
Figuring out where your indoor and outdoor units will be placed is another key step. Most mini-splits are mounted on the wall near the ceiling, but they can also be mounted near the floor or in your ceiling depending on the layout of your space and desired heating configuration.
4. Prepare For Installation
The day before your installation is scheduled, make sure you move any furniture out of the area your technician will be working in to protect it from damage and make it easier for your contractor to get around. Outdoors, be sure to remove any leaves, brush, grass clippings, and lawn furniture from the area your condenser will be installed.
5. Enjoy Your New Heating
Before your technician leaves, they will show you how to use your new system and answer any questions you may have. Then, it’s time to enjoy energy-efficient comfort all winter long! Plus, mini-splits double as air conditioners in the summer to give you even more for your money.
Enjoy the Benefits of Ductless Heat Pumps Today
If you’re tired of heating inefficiency, need to heat a new part of your home, or want to lower your energy bills, contact us today to learn more about improving your winter comfort with a ductless mini-split. Call our Mitsubishi Elite Diamond contractors at (781) 933-6387 or fill out our easy online contact form and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible to help you get started. We look forward to helping you save money and get cleaner, more efficient heating this season.
