When it’s time to replace your furnace or air conditioner, a heat pump is a great option. Heat pumps provide energy-efficient, all-electric heating and cooling in one.
If you’re thinking about installing a heat pump for your home in Connecticut, there are a few things to consider.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about heat pumps, including how they work, what the benefits are, and how rebates can help you save on installation costs.
How Heat Pumps Work
A heat pump works by moving heat from one place to another. In the summer, it removes heat and humidity from the air inside your home. In the winter, it works in reverse, extracting heat from the air outside and bringing it in.
Do Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather?
Modern heat pumps are efficient even when temperatures drop below zero. They pull trace amounts of heat from the air outside and use it to heat refrigerant, which evaporates into a gas as it gets hot. The gas goes through a compressor where it gets even hotter, making it suitable to heat the air in your home.
Optimizing Heat Pump Efficiency
Heat pumps are the most efficient in houses that are well insulated and air sealed. An insulated and tightly sealed house can hold onto heat and AC better, so the heat pump doesn’t have to work as hard to keep it comfortable. That means you can run the heat pump less, reducing your energy costs.
You can get no-cost air sealing completed on the spot as part of your Home Energy Solutions/Home Energy Solutions-Income Eligible visit. Plus, you may qualify for rebates to cover most or all of your insulation costs. Check your eligibility today!
Types of Heat Pumps
There are several types of heat pump systems. Air-source heat pumps are the most common. They move heat through the air and are the most practical option for most Connecticut homes.
There are two types of air-source heat pumps: ducted and ductless.
Ducted Heat Pumps
Ducted heat pumps use your home’s air duct system to distribute hot and cold air through supply vents. This setup gives you centralized heat and air conditioning. It’s generally the best option for houses with central ductwork that’s in good condition.
Ductless Mini Split Heat Pumps
Ductless heat pumps work without air ducts. They’re installed inside the room you want to heat and cool and deliver heated or cooled air to it directly.
Ductless heat pumps are ideal for houses without ductwork. They can be a great option for older homes and new additions. They’re also a great way to add heat or AC to parts of your home that are never warm or cool enough.
Why Install a Heat Pump In Connecticut?
Installing a heat pump will make your house more comfortable and energy efficient while cutting back on fossil fuels. Here’s why so many Connecticut homeowners are installing heat pumps:
- Heating & AC – A heat pump can heat and cool your home. It’s like getting a new heating system and a new air conditioner for the price of one.
- Energy Efficient – Heat pumps are highly energy efficient and can reduce your energy usage, especially if you’re switching from electric resistance heating or an old, inefficient HVAC system.
- Fossil-Fuel-Free Heating – Heat pumps don’t burn fossil fuels, which makes them better for the environment. Plus, you don’t have to worry about gas leaks or carbon monoxide.
- Comfort – A heat pump can make a drastic difference in how comfortable your home is. If you’re struggling with inconsistent temperatures or rooms that are always too hot or too cold, a heat pump will help.
Heat Pump Rebates & Incentives
In Connecticut, heat pumps are eligible for rebates and affordable financing through Energize Connecticut℠, which can make them the most cost-effective option for your furnace or boiler replacement.
At New England Smart Energy Group, we know heat pump rebates! We’re a participating contractor with utility programs and can help you save on installation costs. Here’s a look at what’s available.
Energize CT Rebates
Residential electric customers of Eversource and UI can claim rebates to help cover the cost of heat pump installation.
Income-eligble homeowners can qualify for no-cost heat pumps. For all other customers, rebate amounts vary based on the size of the system you install and the type of heating system you’re replacing.
We can calculate your estimated savings—reach out today to learn more!
New Haven City Grant—Extra Savings for Heat Pumps & Barrier Upgrades
If you live in New Haven and meet income requirements, you’re eligible for additional rebates thanks to a city grant. You can stack your savings with Energize CT rebates to cover most or all of your heat pump installation costs.
New Haven residents can also take advantage of rebates for barrier upgrades, including $3,000 for electrical system improvements, to get your house ready for a heat pump.
Heat Pump Tax Credit
Heat pumps are eligible for a $2,000 federal tax credit through the end of 2025. This tax credit is expiring soon. Start your installation now so you don’t miss out!
