Air Source Heat Pump
An air source heat pump is versatile. It's actually two units in one: an efficient home heating system and an economical air conditioner. Improvements in efficiency and technical advancements have greatly improved air source heat pump reliability and home comfort. When properly installed, an air source heat pump can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a home compared to the electrical energy it consumers. Some new models even heat water for your home.
How air source heat pumps work:
An air source heat pump provides efficient heating and cooling for your home. This is possible because it moves heat, using a refrigerant and coils, much the same way as your refrigerator works. Heat pumps do not rely on the combustion of fuels like oil, propane or natural gas. In winter, the heat pump’s outside unit captures heat that exists naturally in the atmosphere and transfers it to the inside unit where it is amplified to warm your home. In summer, the process is reversed to remove heat and excess humidity, leaving your home cool and comfortable.
Applications:
Air source heat pumps are easy to install in new construction or as replacements to older inefficient fossil fuel heating systems. Also, air source heat pumps are the ideal replacement systems for aging central air conditioners.
Add-on options:
Add-on heat pumps (also called dual fuel) are specialized applications of heat pumps. They are added to existing oil, propane or natural gas furnaces to supply the major portion of the home’s heating requirements. When the outside temperature dips below zero, the fossil fuel furnace will heat the home. Add-on heat pump specifications are identical to those of standard heat pumps and also operate as central air conditioners in the summer to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Financial incentives:
Your electric cooperative may offer members who install air source heat pumps systems financial incentives. Cash rebates, special heating rates and low-interest financing may be available. Many homeowners have already taken advantage of these programs. Some Touchstone Energy Cooperatives also provide customers level billing programs in support of their energy management. We also provide evaluation programs that allow you to fairly compare one heating and cooling system with another.
Year-round benefits:
Comfort: even and consistent temperatures in the home.
Affordability: savings from efficient heating and cooling in a single unit.
Peace of mind: knowing it's reliable and how maintenance
Testimonials:
- "My wife likes the even temperature and how quiet it runs. I like the low cost of operation."
- "We are so happy our REC helped us make this decision. It’s much more economical than our old one."
- "We like our new system and have greater peace of mind knowing that there is no longer an LP tank in our yard."
Get the Brochure:
Contact your western Iowa Touchstone Energy® electric cooperative for more information on connecting a wind turbine.