There’s a lot to think about when you install a new heat pump. But the contractor you hire should be at the top of the list.
A properly installed heat pump will give you the consistent, energy efficient heating and cooling you’re looking for. But a poor installation can do the opposite, making your house less comfortable, increasing energy costs, and even voiding your warranty.
Asking these 5 questions will help you choose a heat pump installer who knows what they’re doing.
1. Will You Run a Manual J Calculation?
A Manual J calculation is used to determine what size heat pump your home needs. They’re best practice for heat pump installation, but not all HVAC companies do them.
If your installer doesn’t, they’re just guessing at what size system you need. That means you could end up with something too big that will cost way more to run, or something too small that won’t heat and cool your house effectively.
It’s also a good litmus test for quality. If a contractor is skipping this crucial step, what other shortcuts might they be taking?
At Total Home Performance, we run Manual J calculations for every heat pump installation we complete to ensure accurate sizing. We’re happy to show you the results and answer any questions you have about heat pump sizing.
2. Can I See Your License Number?
It might seem obvious, but it’s important to make sure your heat pump installer is licensed. Ask them for their license number so that you can verify it’s in good standing without having to take their word for it. Any reputable HVAC contractor will be happy to provide this information. If they’re not, that’s a red flag.
3. Where Will the Indoor & Outdoor Units Be Located & What Will They Look Like?
If aesthetics matter to you, make sure you ask what your heat pump will look like when it’s installed, especially if you’re installing a ductless system. The heads will be fully visible in your home, so you want to make sure you’re okay with their placement and design.
4. Do I Qualify for Any Incentives?
Heat pumps are often eligible for incentives that can bring down your installation costs. They’re typically offered through utility companies and efficiency programs, and vary based on where you live.
A good heat pump installer will know what’s available in your area and how to meet the program's requirements so you can claim your rebate.
At Total Home Performance, we’re a participating contractor with rebate programs through Delmarva Power and BGE. We’ll determine whether you qualify for heat pump rebates and handle the application process for you.
2. How Efficient Will a Heat Pump Be in My House?
If your house is not well insulated, a heat pump will not perform efficiently. That means you’re going to end up with subpar comfort and higher energy costs.
Unfortunately, most HVAC companies aren’t going to look at your insulation or test your home for air leakage before installing a heat pump. It’s outside of their expertise and service offerings. But that’s a serious disservice to you.
That’s what sets Total Home Performance apart. We are a whole-home performance contractor. When you choose us to install your heat pump, we’ll look at everything from your crawl space to your attic to your ductwork to make sure a heat pump is going to perform as expected in your home.
Looking for Heat Pump Quotes? Give Total Home Performance a Call
If you’re interested in installing or replacing a heat pump, reach out to Total Home Performance. We’re a locally owned home performance company that’s been serving Maryland and Delaware homeowners for over 16 years. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about heat pump installation so you can move forward with confidence.