Pros And Cons Of Heat Pumps For Commercial Heating

Furnaces and boilers are two of the most popular heating options for commercial homes. A new technology option has become more popular in recent days: heat pumps. Learn more about the pros and cons of heat pumps to determine if it's the right choice for your commercial heating needs. 

Pro: Energy Efficient 

Heat pumps work by collecting heat in the air around them and then using that heat to heat the air it will eventually transport throughout the home, which requires less energy than creating heat. In fact, heat pumps can reduce energy costs by up to 60% compared to using a furnace or a boiler. 

Con: Expensive

The average cost to install a new heat pump is between $2500 - $10,000. Geothermal heat pumps work the best but also tend to cost the most. Commercial heat pumps may cost more than average, depending on the size of the building and the usage requirements. Naturally, a 2-ton heat pump will cost less than a 5-ton heat pump.

Part of the high cost is a result of the difficult installation. Heat pumps require significant space around them. Being a  newer technology, not all companies are properly trained in heat pump installation yet, which also contributes to higher installation prices. 

Pro: Provides Cooling and Heating 

Heat pumps serve a dual purpose. They heat and cool a building. Buildings that use a furnace or boiler will need an air conditioner as well to provide complete temperature control. 

Con: Cold Weather Problems

Since heat pumps work using existing heat, they may not work as well in cold temperatures. To circumvent this problem, geothermal units should be used in cold weather climates. Property owners can also look into hybrid models that run on an alternative fuel source when the heat pump function can't keep up with the demand. Furthermore, the cold weather can cause damage to the unit if it doesn't have defrosting technology. 

Pro: Eco-Friendly 

Heat pumps don't emit a large amount of carbon monoxide or other toxic gas into the air. Since they essentially recycle the heat in the area around them, they don't require as much fuel. These features make heat pumps an eco-friendly option that can attract companies with a green initiative. The government also gives tax credits to companies that replace old heating systems with new energy-efficient systems, such as heat pumps. The upgrade, while expensive, may not be as bad as you thought.

To learn more, contact a commercial heating installation service in your area.