What this covers
A heat pump heats and cools with the same equipment: in summer it works like an air conditioner, and in winter it reverses to pull heat out of the outdoor air and move it inside. Cold-climate models hold their output well below freezing. The installer sizes the system from a load calculation, decides whether a gas furnace or electric strips stay as backup heat, sets the outdoor unit on a stand or pad high enough to clear snow and defrost water, installs the indoor air handler or coil, runs and tests the line set, and charges the system. Controls are set so the backup heat only runs when needed. The company then verifies heating and cooling performance before leaving.
When to call
- An air conditioner and a furnace both due for replacement at the same time.
- A home heated by oil, propane or electric baseboards that wants a more efficient heat source.
- An all-electric home, or one adding solar, where electric heating makes sense.
- A home with a furnace but no air conditioner that wants to add cooling.
What to expect
- SizeThe load calculation and the climate decide the capacity, the model and the backup heat.
- SetThe outdoor unit goes on a stand or pad clear of snow and drainage, and the air handler or coil is installed inside.
- ConnectThe line set, condensate drain and electrical circuits are run, and the system is pressure tested and evacuated.
- CommissionThe charge is set, the controls configured for backup heat, and both heating and cooling are run and measured.
Get a certified company
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Questions people ask
Does a heat pump work in cold winters?
Modern cold-climate units keep most of their heating capacity well below freezing. In very cold climates the system is often paired with a furnace or electric backup that takes over on the coldest hours.
What is a dual-fuel system?
A heat pump paired with a gas furnace. The heat pump heats most of the season and the furnace takes over below a set outdoor temperature, which the installer sets for the equipment and the fuel.
Will my electrical panel handle it?
Often yes, but an air handler with electric backup strips draws a large circuit. The company checks the panel capacity, and a licensed electrician adds the circuit or upgrades the panel where needed.
Related: Air conditioner installation · Ductless mini-split installation · Electrical panel upgrades · All heating, cooling and air quality
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.